Cost of Living in Bear Creek, AL

With a cost of living index of 58, Bear Creek, AL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 42% cheaper than the national average and 16% below the Alabama state average of 74. Bear Creek is a small community of 1,317 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Bear Creek's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $640 (51% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $95,300 (69% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.6x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Bear Creek is $36,250, which is 52% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 21% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Bear Creek. The area sees an average annual temperature of 59.6°F, with summers averaging 76°F and winters around 43°F. Annual rainfall totals 58.7 inches spread over roughly 113 days.

Everyday prices in the Decatur, AL (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.