Cost of Living in Pell City, AL
Population 13,353 · Alabama · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Pell City sits on the smaller end of the Alabama city distribution. That scale shapes the housing market, the labor pool, and the services available to residents in ways the data below makes visible. At 6.8%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Located 30 miles east of Birmingham, Pell City falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 72% higher than Birmingham's $139,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Pell City
The median home value in Pell City is $238,100 — 22% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,103/month, 16% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $73,043/year is 2% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 6.8%, 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, Pell City has a cost of living index of 80 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 20% 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 Pell City, AL?
Pell City has a cost index of 80 (100 = national average). It is 20% below the national average.
What is average rent in Pell City, AL?
The median gross rent in Pell City is $1,103 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Pell City?
The median home value in Pell City is $238,100 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Pell City?
The median household income in Pell City is $73,043 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Pell City, AL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Pell City is 9.2%. The Alabama state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Pell City, AL affordable?
Yes, Pell City is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 80 — about 20% below the US national average of 100.
Pell City at a Glance
- Population
- 13,353
- Median Income
- $73,043
- Home Value
- $238,100
- Median Rent
- $1,103/mo
- Unemployment
- 6.8%
- Sales Tax
- 9.2%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Alabama Rankings
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