New Resident Guide —
Moving to Auburn & Opelika
Welcome to your new community. This checklist covers everything from setting up utilities to finding a doctor — so you can settle in quickly and start enjoying life in Auburn and Opelika.
Moving to a new city is exciting — and a little overwhelming. I relocated to Auburn in 2005 and remember what it felt like to figure everything out from scratch. This guide is the one I wish I'd had. Use it as your go-to checklist for settling into Auburn and Opelika.
When to do what.
Use this timeline to stay organized before, during, and after your move.
2–4 Weeks Before
1 Week Before
First Week
First Month
Utilities Setup
Water & Electric — Auburn Utilities: 334-501-3000
Covers water and electric within city limits.
Water & Electric — Opelika Utilities
For homes within Opelika city limits.
Electric — Alabama Power (areas outside city limits)
Call 1-800-245-2244 for service areas outside Auburn/Opelika.
Natural Gas — Spire: 800-682-5200
Set up gas service at least one week before move-in.
Internet — AT&T Fiber, Spectrum, or Brightspeed
Check availability by address — fiber options vary by neighborhood.
Cable/Satellite — Spectrum, DirecTV, or Dish
Spectrum also offers cable TV bundles with internet.
Trash & Recycling — Provided by city
Most areas include city-provided trash and recycling pickup.
Driver's License & Vehicle
Get your Alabama driver's license
Visit an ALEA office within 60 days of establishing residency. Bring proof of identity, Social Security card, and two proofs of Alabama residency.
Register your vehicle in Alabama
Visit the Lee County Tag Office. Bring your out-of-state title, Alabama insurance proof, and a valid ID. Registration fee varies by vehicle value.
Update your vehicle insurance
Alabama requires minimum liability coverage. Contact a local agent or your current provider to update your policy to an Alabama address.
Voter Registration
Register to vote in Lee County
You can register online at the Alabama Secretary of State website, at the Lee County Board of Registrars, or when getting your driver's license. Bring a valid photo ID.
Healthcare
Find a primary care doctor
East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC) is the main hospital. Auburn-Opelika has multiple primary care practices accepting new patients.
Find a dentist
Several dental practices serve the area. Ask neighbors or check online reviews for current patient feedback.
Locate an urgent care
Auburn has urgent care clinics for non-emergency situations. EAMC also operates an urgent care facility.
Find a pharmacy
CVS, Walgreens, and local pharmacies are available throughout Auburn and Opelika.
Shopping & Groceries
Grocery stores — Publix
Publix is the most popular grocery chain in Auburn with multiple locations. Known for clean stores and friendly service.
Grocery stores — Kroger
Kroger has locations in both Auburn and Opelika with a strong loyalty rewards program.
Grocery stores — Walmart
Walmart Supercenter in Opelika for one-stop shopping including groceries, household items, and more.
Local options
Check out local farmers markets and specialty shops for fresh, locally sourced options.
Banking
Open a local bank account
Major national banks (Chase, Regions, Wells Fargo) and credit unions have branches in Auburn and Opelika. Compare fees and services.
Community Groups & Organizations
Join a civic club
Auburn and Opelika have active Rotary, Kiwanis, and Lions Club chapters. These organizations welcome new members and provide community service opportunities.
Volunteer with local nonprofits
Organizations like the Food Bank of East Alabama, the Auburn-Opelika Habitat for Humanity, and local animal rescues welcome volunteers. Check their websites for current needs.
Explore Auburn University community programs
Auburn University offers public lectures, performances, and events through the Gogue Performing Arts Center, Jule Collins Smith Museum, and the College of Sciences and Mathematics outreach programs.
Join a neighborhood association
Many neighborhoods in Auburn and Opelika have active associations that organize events, handle community concerns, and keep residents informed. Ask your real estate agent or local neighbors about yours.
Find adult sports leagues
Both cities offer recreational sports leagues through their parks and recreation departments. Options include softball, tennis, pickleball, soccer, and youth leagues for families.
Community & Social
Join local social media groups
Facebook groups like "Auburn Alabama Community" and "What's Happening in Auburn-Opelika" are active for local news, events, and recommendations.
Explore parks & recreation
Chewacla State Park, Town Creek Park, and the AU Arboretum are popular with visitors of all ages. Both cities have active recreation programs.
Get involved
Auburn has a strong volunteer and civic culture. Check out the Chamber of Commerce, neighborhood associations, and Auburn University community events.
Common New Resident Questions
New to the area? Here are answers to the questions new residents ask most.
How do I set up water and electric in Auburn?
Contact Auburn Utilities at 334-501-3000 to set up water and electric service. You'll need your new address, a valid photo ID, and possibly a deposit. Set up service at least one week before your move-in date. For areas outside city limits, contact Alabama Power at 1-800-245-2244.
What internet providers are available in Auburn?
AT&T Fiber, Spectrum, and Brightspeed all serve the Auburn-Opelika area. AT&T Fiber offers the fastest speeds where available but coverage varies by neighborhood. Spectrum has broader availability. Check each provider's website with your specific address to confirm service.
How do I get an Alabama driver's license?
Visit any ALEA (Alabama Law Enforcement Agency) driver license office within 60 days of establishing residency. Bring your out-of-state license, a certified birth certificate or passport, Social Security card, and two documents proving Alabama residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement).
Where do I register my car in Alabama?
Visit the Lee County Tag Office with your out-of-state title, proof of Alabama insurance, a valid photo ID, and a completed Application for Alabama Title. You'll pay a title fee and registration fee based on your vehicle's value.
What are the best grocery stores in Auburn?
Publix is the most popular choice with multiple locations in Auburn. Kroger also has stores in both Auburn and Opelika. Walmart Supercenter in Opelika offers one-stop shopping. For local and specialty items, check out the farmers markets and local shops.
More guides for new residents.
Utility Setup Guide
Complete contact info and setup instructions for every utility in Auburn and Opelika.
Game Day Guide
Everything you need to know about Auburn Tigers game days — parking, tailgating, food, and traditions.
Best Neighborhoods
Explore Auburn's top neighborhoods for a wide range of buyers.
Need help settling in?
I've helped many buyers make the move to Auburn and Opelika. From finding the right neighborhood to recommending the best local spots — I'm here to make your transition as smooth as possible.