Cost of Living in Opelika, AL
Population 31,944 · Alabama · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The Opelika cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $214,000, rents near $947 a month.
Located 30 miles west of Columbus, Opelika falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 17% higher than Columbus' $182,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Opelika
The median home value in Opelika is $213,700 — 30% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $947/month, 28% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $58,763/year is 21% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 5.1%, 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, Opelika has a cost of living index of 71 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 29% 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 Opelika, AL?
Opelika has a cost index of 71 (100 = national average). It is 29% below the national average.
What is average rent in Opelika, AL?
The median gross rent in Opelika is $947 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Opelika?
The median home value in Opelika is $213,700 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Opelika?
The median household income in Opelika is $58,763 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Opelika, AL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Opelika is 9.2%. The Alabama state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Opelika, AL affordable?
Yes, Opelika is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 71 — about 29% below the US national average of 100.
Opelika at a Glance
- Population
- 31,944
- Median Income
- $58,763
- Home Value
- $213,700
- Median Rent
- $947/mo
- Unemployment
- 5.1%
- Sales Tax
- 9.2%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Alabama Rankings
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