Cost of Living in Colbert County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Colbert County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Colbert County ranks #1,401 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 45%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Colbert County, Alabama
Colbert's rent burden beats the nation
At 17.7%, Colbert County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national norm—residents here spend far less of their paychecks on rent than Americans overall. Colbert's median household income of $56,736 trails the U.S. median of $74,755, yet housing costs remain remarkably affordable by national standards.
Among Alabama's most affordable counties
Colbert ranks as one of Alabama's better housing buys, with a 17.7% rent-to-income ratio slightly better than the state average of 18.0%. The $838 median monthly rent is 5% higher than Alabama's typical $799, but household incomes here support that difference comfortably.
A middle ground in North Alabama
Colbert's $838 rent falls between neighbors Cullman County ($883) and Coosa County ($682), offering balance between urban convenience and rural affordability. Its median home value of $161,600 positions it as more expensive for ownership than surrounding counties but still accessible compared to state urban centers.
Where Colbert incomes go
Renters spend $838 monthly while owners pay $769—a modest difference suggesting both paths remain viable for the typical household earning $56,736 annually. Overall, housing consumes just 17.7% of income, leaving breathing room for other necessities and savings.
Colbert offers solid affordability
If you're weighing Alabama counties for a move, Colbert delivers below-average housing costs without sacrificing access to employment and services. Compare the $838 rent here against pricier neighbors like Cullman, or explore ownership at $161,600 median value—both merit serious consideration.
Cost of Living Advisory: Colbert County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Colbert County is affordable. The median rent is $838/month against a median household income of $56,736, putting rent at 17.7% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $838/month rent versus $769/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $69/month cheaper — a 8% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,957/year. With a median household income of $56,736, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Colbert County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Alabama, Colbert County is more affordable than Clarke County by roughly 7% ($838/mo vs $785/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Colbert County
Rent Burden
17.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,324
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Colbert County
Median home value is $161,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,290 vs. your max of $1,324.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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