Cost of Living in Sylacauga, AL

With a cost of living index of 66, Sylacauga, AL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 34% cheaper than the national average and 8% below the Alabama state average of 74. Sylacauga is a smaller community of 12,388 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Sylacauga's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $717 (46% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $156,800 (49% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.4x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Sylacauga is $46,384, which is 38% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 19% 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 Sylacauga. The area sees an average annual temperature of 64.4°F, with summers averaging 80°F and winters around 48°F. Annual rainfall totals 56.2 inches spread over roughly 126 days.

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.