Cost of Living in Clay, AL
Population 10,288 · Alabama · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Buyers in Clay can reasonably expect a home to cost less than three years of household income — $198,000 against $86,163 in typical earnings — a ratio that has collapsed to 5:1 or worse in much of the country.
Geographically, Clay sits roughly 15 miles northeast of Birmingham. Median home values run roughly 43% higher than Birmingham's $139,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Clay
The median home value in Clay is $198,400 — 35% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,373/month, 4% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $86,163/year is 16% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.4%, 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, Clay has a cost of living index of 81 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 19% 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
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Clay, AL?
Clay has a cost index of 81 (100 = national average). It is 19% below the national average.
What is average rent in Clay, AL?
The median gross rent in Clay is $1,373 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Clay?
The median home value in Clay is $198,400 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Clay?
The median household income in Clay is $86,163 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Clay, AL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Clay is 9.2%. The Alabama state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Clay, AL affordable?
Yes, Clay is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 81 — about 19% below the US national average of 100.
Clay at a Glance
- Population
- 10,288
- Median Income
- $86,163
- Home Value
- $198,400
- Median Rent
- $1,373/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.4%
- Sales Tax
- 9.2%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Alabama Rankings
Similar Cost Cities
Cities in other states with comparable housing costs