Cost of Living in Decatur, AL
Population 57,760 · Alabama · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The Decatur cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $191,000, rents near $861 a month.
Geographically, Decatur sits roughly 20 miles west of Huntsville. Median home values run roughly 28% lower than Huntsville's $263,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Decatur
The median home value in Decatur is $190,500 — 38% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $861/month, 34% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $59,831/year is 20% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 5.0%, above 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, Decatur has a cost of living index of 64 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 36% 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 Decatur, AL?
Decatur has a cost index of 64 (100 = national average). It is 36% below the national average.
What is average rent in Decatur, AL?
The median gross rent in Decatur is $861 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Decatur?
The median home value in Decatur is $190,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Decatur?
The median household income in Decatur is $59,831 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Decatur, AL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Decatur is 9.2%. The Alabama state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Decatur, AL affordable?
Yes, Decatur is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 64 — about 36% below the US national average of 100.
Decatur at a Glance
- Population
- 57,760
- Median Income
- $59,831
- Home Value
- $190,500
- Median Rent
- $861/mo
- Unemployment
- 5.0%
- Sales Tax
- 9.2%
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Alabama Rankings
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