If you’re looking at a map of Southeast Alabama, you’ll see Dothan sitting there like the hub of a massive wheel. Most folks just call it the Peanut Capital. But if you’re actually moving here, or trying to figure out where to open a shop, just saying "Dothan" isn't enough. You need the right Dothan Alabama zip code. Honestly, the difference between living in 36301 and 36305 is like the difference between a classic downtown loft and a sprawling suburban lawn. They aren't just numbers; they’re different lifestyles.
I've seen plenty of people get confused by the way the city is sliced up. It’s not a perfect grid.
The Big Three: Understanding the Dothan Alabama Zip Code Layout
Dothan basically operates on three primary residential zip codes: 36301, 36303, and 36305. There are others, like 36302 and 36304, but those are mostly for P.O. boxes. If you're looking for a front porch to sit on, you’re looking at the big three.
36301: The Southern Soul
This is the south side. It’s the largest in terms of sheer population, housing somewhere around 38,447 people as of early 2026. If you want to be near the historic heart of the city or the southern stretches of the Ross Clark Circle, this is your spot. It also stretches out into places like Taylor and Rehobeth.
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Kinda interesting—the median home value here stays around $156,000 to $210,000 depending on which neighborhood you hit. It’s generally more affordable than the west side, but the market is "somewhat competitive" lately. Homes in 36301 have been selling in about 66 days, which is a bit slower than last year, but still steady.
36303: The Busy North
The 36303 area covers the northern part of town. Think shopping, restaurants, and the "main drag." It’s home to about 31,000 residents. If you’re a renter, this might be your go-to. Median rent here has been hovering around $1,650, which is actually higher than some of the other spots because of the proximity to the commercial centers and medical facilities.
Funny enough, 36303 is currently leaning toward a "buyer’s market." There are usually about 176 homes for sale at any given time. Properties here stay on the market a little longer—averaging about 82 days—which gives you some room to negotiate.
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36305: The Western Growth
If 36301 is the history and 36303 is the hustle, 36305 is the "new" Dothan. It’s the west side. It’s where you’ll find the newer developments and higher price tags. The median home value in 36305 is significantly higher, often pushing past $344,000.
Population-wise, it’s smaller—roughly 18,000 people—but it’s growing fast. It’s where people go when they want those modern floor plans and maybe a bit more elbow room from their neighbors.
Why Your Zip Code Actually Matters Here
You’d think a zip code is just for the mailman. Not in Dothan. It determines your commute, your school district, and even your property taxes.
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- Commute Times: Dothan is famous for its traffic on "The Circle" (Ross Clark Circle). If you live in 36301 and work on the north side in 36303, you’re going to spend a lot of time looking at brake lights.
- School Zones: Dothan City Schools and Houston County Schools divide their lines largely based on these zones.
- The "Vibe": 36301 feels more established and rooted. 36305 feels like a suburb you'd find in a much larger city.
Deep Dive Into 36301: Real Estate and Real Life
Let’s talk money for a second. In 36301, the median household income is roughly $49,124. It’s a diverse area. You’ve got everything from 1,200-square-foot starter homes selling for $132,000 to larger estates further south.
Recent sales data from January 2026 shows a 3-bedroom on Berlin Road went for $228,000. Meanwhile, a smaller place on Glenwood Street sold for $104,900. It’s a mixed bag. This zip code is great if you’re looking for a "fixer-upper" or a solid rental property.
Comparing the Costs: A Quick Look
I won't give you a fancy table because real estate isn't that tidy. Basically:
36305 is the most expensive. You’re looking at median list prices near $376,000.
36301 offers the most value. You can still find homes in the $150k-$210k range.
36303 is the rental king. It has the highest demand for apartments and townhomes due to the hospital and retail workers.
The Outsiders: 36350 and 36320
Sometimes people search for a Dothan Alabama zip code and end up looking at 36350 (Newton) or 36320 (Cottonwood). These are technically outside the city limits but close enough that people commute. If you want a literal farm but want to be 15 minutes from Target, 36320 is a sneaky good choice. A house there just sold for $167,500 with three bedrooms and a decent bit of land.
What People Get Wrong
The biggest misconception? That Dothan is "small" and the zip codes don't matter.
It takes longer to get across Dothan than people realize. If you pick a house in 36305 but your kids go to a private school in 36301, you’re going to hate your life by the third week of the semester.
Another thing is the flood and fire risk. Redfin data suggests about 9% of properties in 36301 are at risk of severe flooding over the next few decades. It’s something to check before you sign those closing papers.
Actionable Steps for Your Move
- Check the Circle: Before you buy, drive from your potential home to your workplace at 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The zip code boundaries often cross the busiest intersections.
- Verify the School District: Don't assume. Some 36301 addresses fall under Houston County, while others are Dothan City. It depends on whether you're inside or outside the city limits.
- Look at 36303 for Investment: If you’re looking to buy a rental property, the demand in the north part of town is consistently high because of the Flowers Hospital and Southeast Health workforce.
- Watch the Market Pace: If you're looking in 36305, move fast. Homes there stay on the market for about 41 days. In 36303, you can afford to be a bit pickier since they sit for over 80 days on average.
Knowing the right Dothan Alabama zip code is the first step to actually fitting into the Wiregrass area. Whether you want the growth of the west side or the affordability of the south, each number tells a different story about what your life in Alabama will look like. Take your time, look at the recent sales in each specific zone, and don't just pick the first house with a nice kitchen.