Satsuma
citySatsuma, Alabama, nestled in Mobile County, is a welcoming suburb of Mobile with a rich history. Once known as Fig Tree Island, it was renamed in honor of the satsuma orange, which thrived here after being introduced from Japan in the late 19th century. Today, Satsuma offers a blend of small-town charm and convenient access to the amenities of a larger metropolitan area. The population in 2020 was 6,749, and has grown to an estimated 6,932 in 2026. Satsuma's economy has evolved from its agricultural roots in citrus and pecans to a more diverse base. Key industries now include manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The city aims to balance economic development with environmental stewardship, preserving its natural surroundings. What makes Satsuma distinctive is its blend of historical significance and community spirit. From its origins as Fig Tree Island to its citrus boom and eventual incorporation, Satsuma has maintained a strong sense of identity. The city's commitment to quality of life is evident in its schools, parks, and community events.
Satsuma, Alabama
- Classification
- City
- FIPS Code
- 01-68352
- Country
- United States
- County
- Mobile
- Region
- Southwest Alabama
- Elevation
- 23 ft
- Total Area
- 7.4 sq mi
- Land Area
- 7.35 sq mi
- Water Area
- 0.05 sq mi
- Latitude
- 30.86556
- Longitude
- -88.07389
- Climate
- The climate in Satsuma is characterized by warm, humid summers and mild winters, typical of the Gulf Coast region.
- Notable Features
- Gunnison Creek · Proximity to Mobile Delta and Mobile River
- Neighboring Areas
- Saraland · Creola · Mobile
- Population (2020)
- 6,749
- Est. Population (2026)
- 6,932
- Median Age
- 48.1
- Median Income
- $101,042
- Poverty Rate
- 5.19%
- Family Households
- 76.6%
- Owner-Occupied
- 84.7%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- The racial makeup of Satsuma is approximately 80.89% White, 8.84% Black or African American, 2.58% Asian, and smaller percentages of other races and multiracial populations. Approximately 0.55% of the population is Hispanic or Latino.
- Government Type
- Mayor-Council
- Governing Body
- City Council
- School District
- Satsuma City School System
- Municipal Services
- Police · Fire · Public Works
- Unemployment Rate
- 5.2%
- Economic Profile
- Residential/suburban
- Employment Sectors
- Manufacturing · Health Care & Social Assistance · Educational Services
- Major Employers
- Patterson Farms Inc. · Quality Sawmill & Millwork
- Schools
- 2
- Students
- 1,494
- Student-Teacher Ratio
- 18:1
- School Districts
- Satsuma City School System
- Transportation
- U.S. Route 43 · Interstate 65
- Utilities
- Municipal water
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Satsuma Parks and Recreation Center · Hartfield Waterfowl Refuge · Lake Cory
- Parks & Trails
- Satsuma Park
- Incorporated
- 1959
- Named After
- Satsuma orange
- Historical Significance
- Satsuma's history is tied to the rise and fall of the satsuma orange industry in the region. The city has transitioned from an agricultural hub to a suburban community while maintaining its unique identity.
- Key Events
- Area inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years · Farmers introduced Mandarin Satsuma oranges to Alabama from Japan (1876-1878) · Known as Fig Tree Island prior to 1915 · Town named Satsuma (1915) · Plans for a town charter approved (1959)