Cost of Living in Athens, AL
Population 27,474 · Alabama · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Most of Athens's cost indicators track within a reasonable band of national figures, with median household incomes near $65,000 — a more representative starting point for relocation math than the headline-expensive or headline-cheap cities on either tail.
Athens sits roughly 15 miles west of Huntsville — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Housing prices track closely with Huntsville's $263,000 median.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Athens
The median home value in Athens is $253,700 — 17% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $834/month, 37% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $65,000/year is 13% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.3%, below the national average of 4.8%. Alabama's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 9.2%. Overall, Athens has a cost of living index of 75 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 25% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Athens, AL?
Athens has a cost index of 75 (100 = national average). It is 25% below the national average.
What is average rent in Athens, AL?
The median gross rent in Athens is $834 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Athens?
The median home value in Athens is $253,700 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Athens?
The median household income in Athens is $65,000 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Athens, AL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Athens is 9.2%. The Alabama state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Athens, AL affordable?
Yes, Athens is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 75 — about 25% below the US national average of 100.
Athens at a Glance
- Population
- 27,474
- Median Income
- $65,000
- Home Value
- $253,700
- Median Rent
- $834/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.3%
- Sales Tax
- 9.2%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Alabama Rankings
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