Cost of Living in Rutledge, AL

With a cost of living index of 56, Rutledge, AL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 44% cheaper than the national average and 19% below the Alabama state average of 74. Rutledge is a small community of 223 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Rutledge's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $637 (52% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $58,700 (81% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Rutledge is $57,625, which is 23% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 13% 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 Rutledge. The area sees an average annual temperature of 65.1°F, with summers averaging 79°F and winters around 50°F. Annual rainfall totals 54.4 inches spread over roughly 112 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

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.