Cost of Living in Valley, AL
Population 10,406 · Alabama · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Under 25,000 residents gives Valley a small-town character that shows up in every data point below — from the commute patterns to the rental inventory. A typical home runs $131,000. The labor market has been unusually tight, with unemployment around 2.2% — below most comparable cities in the state.
Valley is about 30 miles northwest of Columbus, the nearest large metro — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 28% lower than Columbus' $182,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Valley
The median home value in Valley is $130,500 — 57% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,024/month, 22% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $55,422/year is 26% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 2.2%, 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, Valley has a cost of living index of 57 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 43% 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 Valley, AL?
Valley has a cost index of 57 (100 = national average). It is 43% below the national average.
What is average rent in Valley, AL?
The median gross rent in Valley is $1,024 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Valley?
The median home value in Valley is $130,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Valley?
The median household income in Valley is $55,422 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Valley, AL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Valley is 9.2%. The Alabama state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Valley, AL affordable?
Yes, Valley is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 57 — about 43% below the US national average of 100.
Valley at a Glance
- Population
- 10,406
- Median Income
- $55,422
- Home Value
- $130,500
- Median Rent
- $1,024/mo
- Unemployment
- 2.2%
- Sales Tax
- 9.2%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Alabama Rankings
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