Cost of Living in Russell County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Russell County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Russell County ranks #1,091 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 35%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Russell County, Alabama
Russell's rent burden runs high
Russell County renters spend 21.5% of income on rent, outpacing the national standard of 30% being unaffordable but still above where most Americans should be. Household incomes of $50,046 fall 33% below the national median of $74,755, putting pressure on every housing dollar spent.
Above Alabama's affordability line
Russell County's 21.5% rent-to-income ratio sits notably higher than Alabama's state average of 18.0%, placing it in the less-affordable half of Alabama counties. At $898 monthly rent, the county exceeds the state median of $799 by $99, reflecting regional housing cost pressures.
Among the pricier corners
Russell County's $898 rent ranks it above neighboring Talladega ($772) and Walker County ($743), though below the more affluent Shelby County ($1,348). Owner costs similarly run higher here—$805 monthly—than in rural Tallapoosa ($646) and Walker ($593).
Where every dollar stretches thin
Renters here allocate roughly $898 of $50,046 annual income to rent, while homeowners commit $805 monthly toward ownership. The median home value of $152,300 remains accessible compared to state growth corridors, but tight incomes limit purchase power for many households.
Consider Russell if affordability matters most
Russell County offers lower absolute housing costs than many Alabama alternatives, though income levels mean careful budgeting is essential. If you're relocating for work in the region, compare your expected salary against the $50,046 county median to gauge true affordability before committing.
Cost of Living Advisory: Russell County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Russell County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $898/month in gross rent, with 30.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $898/month rent versus $805/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $93/month cheaper — a 10% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $34,500/year. With a median household income of $50,046, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Russell County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Russell County sits 7% more expensive than Sumter County ($841/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Russell County
Rent Burden
21.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,168
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.3%
of gross income
The median home in Russell County may be a stretch
Median home value is $152,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,216 vs. your max of $1,168.
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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