Looking for affordable living in Alabama? You’ve come to the right place! Alabama is home to some of the most budget-friendly cities for apartment renters in the country. Read on to learn about 13 of the top options for affordable living in Alabama for 2024.
1. Enterprise
Average rent: $675
Enterprise stands out as one of the most affordable cities in Alabama. With an average rent of $675, it’s a steal for renters. One-bedroom apartments in Enterprise are priced around $625, while two-bedroom units go for about $725.
Enterprise is home to Fort Novosel, one of the largest military installations in the area, providing tons of job opportunities. The city has plenty of free attractions like the Boll Weevil Monument, a quirky landmark dedicated to the insect that changed the area’s agricultural history.
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2. Gadsden
Average rent: $750
Gadsden has an average rent of $750, making it another top budget-friendly spot. One-bedroom apartments in Gadsden cost around $700, and two-bedrooms are priced at about $800.
Key employers in Gadsden include Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company and Riverview Regional Medical Center. For a day off, the Gadsden Museum of Art offers free admission and showcases local art, making it a great spot for artsy types.
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3. Decatur
Average rent: $764
With an average rent of $764, Decatur is a great spot to settle down without breaking the bank. One-bedroom apartments in Decatur are priced at $699, while two-bedroom units cost around $799.
Major employers in Decatur include the United Launch Alliance and Nucor Steel, providing stable, well-paying jobs. The Carnegie Visual Arts Center is a safe bet for all creatives. The arts center provides free admission and hosts various art exhibits and cultural events.
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4. Montgomery
Average rent: $823
Montgomery, the state capital, combines affordability with rich history. The average rent in Montgomery is $823, making it a budget-friendly option. Studio apartments start at $670, and one-bedroom units are around $830. Two-bedroom apartments cost approximately $970.
Montgomery is home to significant employers like Maxwell Air Force Base and Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama. The city also boasts historic free attractions like the Alabama State Capitol and the Civil Rights Memorial.
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5. Tuscaloosa
Average rent: $924
Tuscaloosa also ranks high in affordability. The average rent in Tuscaloosa is $924, with studio apartments at $819 and one-bedroom units at $925. Two-bedroom apartments cost about $1,027.
The University of Alabama is a major employer in Tuscaloosa, providing plenty of jobs and a great college town vibe The Tuscaloosa Riverwalk offers scenic views and walking trails along the Black Warrior River. The city also hosts free events like concerts and art shows at the Bama Theatre.
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6. Phenix City
Average rent: $945
The average rent in Phenix City sits at $945, making it a budget-friendly option for renters. One-bedroom apartments in Phenix City are priced around $887, while two-bedroom units go for about $1,003.
Major employers in Phenix City include the Phenix City School District and TSYS, a global payments company. For a low-budget day on the town, the Phenix City Riverwalk is a must see, with scenic views and walking trails along the Chattahoochee River.
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7. Hoover
Average rent: $949
Hoover, a thriving suburban city, has a median rent of $949. This makes it more affordable than many larger Alabama cities. Studio apartments in Hoover start at $725, while one-bedroom units are around $899. Two-bedroom apartments cost about $1,224.
The city is home to major employers like Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama and Regions Financial Corporation. In their free time, many residents frequent Aldridge Gardens, a serene public garden with walking trails and beautiful landscapes.
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8. Auburn
Average rent: $955
Average rent in Auburn is right at $955. One-bedroom apartments in Auburn are priced around $1,150, while two-bedroom units cost about $760.
Auburn University is a major employer in the city and the reason for the stellar college town atmosphere. The Donald E. Davis Arboretum, which offers beautiful walking trails and garden displays, is popular among students and residents alike. The city also hosts free community events and festivals, providing frequent entertainment options without any cost.
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9. Northport
Average rent: $999
Northport, with an average rent of $999, offers a mix of affordability and suburban charm. One-bedroom apartments in Northport are priced at $861, while two-bedroom units cost about $1,121. T
Major employers in Northport include the DCH Health System and BFGoodrich Tire Manufacturing. The Kentuck Art Center and Park is a great place to kick back with friends and neighbors as it hosts art exhibits and festivals on a regular basis.
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10. Dothan
Average rent: $1,012
Dothan boasts an average rent of $1,012. One-bedroom apartments in Dothan are priced at $984, while two-bedroom units cost about $1,039.
Major employers in Dothan include Southeast Health and the Dothan City School System. The city is the proud host of the National Peanut Festival, which offers free admission days and celebrates the local peanut industry with fun and entertainment for all ages.
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11. Mobile
Average rent: $1,117
Mobile, a bustling port city, has an average rent of $1,117, making it an affordable option for renters. One-bedroom apartments in Mobile are priced around $852, while two-bedroom units cost about $1,206.
Major employers in Mobile include Austal USA and the University of South Alabama. Mobile Bay, which offers beautiful views and outdoor activities, is the city’s crown jewel. The city also hosts free community events throughout the year.
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12. Huntsville
Average rent: $1,133
Huntsville, known for its high-tech and aerospace industries, has an average rent of $1,133, making it an affordable option for renters. One-bedroom apartments in Huntsville are priced around $1,127, while two-bedroom units cost about $1,244.
Major employers in Huntsville include NASA and the Redstone Arsenal. The Huntsville Botanical Garden, which offers beautiful walking trails and garden displays, is where you’ll find many locals on a nice day.
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13. Bessemer
Average rent: $1,142
Bessemer, a suburban city, has an average rent of $1,142, making it an affordable option for renters. One-bedroom apartments in Bessemer are priced around $844, while two-bedroom units cost about $1,577. The city’s low cost of living, including affordable utility and transportation expenses, makes it an attractive place to live.
Major employers in Bessemer include the Bessemer City School District and UAB Medical West. The Bessemer Hall of History Museum is worth the visit for its fascinating exhibits and impressive educational displays.
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Methodology
All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have an average rent price under the median rent price for the state – which is $1,205 per month according to Redfin data. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2024.
