Montevallo is located in the south western section of the County and approximately 30 miles south of Birmingham.  Montevallo offers a small-town quality of life but within short driving distance of Alabama's largest metropolitan area. With the state's only public liberal arts university, the University of Montevallo, located in the heart of the city, cultural and athletic events are abundant. There is rarely a week without a concert, a play, an art exhibit, or a collegiate-level athletic event.

Incorporated in 1817, Montevallo was originally called Wilson's Hill. It took its name from its first citizen who was named Wilson, who arrived here from Georgia and built a log house on top of the hill near the large spring on Shoal creek.

On Montevallo’s Main Street the citizens and business owners are proud to have maintained the historic character of the Main Street store fronts. Merchants are finding that they become an integral part of the community enjoying the friendliness, support and loyalty so important to a successful business.  With the growing population, Montevallo is quickly becoming the center for shopping in the southwestern corner of Shelby County. Merchants are finding a successful home in this community comprised of local folks, university students and visitors, tourists of the American Village, commuters who travel through Montevallo daily and those from a wide area surrounding Montevallo. Montevallo also has an Industrial Park which offers a direct route to Interstate 65 and heavy railroad transportation services.

Montevallo is served by the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce  and the Montevallo Chamber of Commerce.