Auburn, AL vs Opelika, AL
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Opelika is 17.2% cheaper than Auburn. With a cost index of 77 vs 90, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Opelika to Auburn should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Auburn is $1,034/month compared to $947/month in Opelika — a 9% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Opelika is more affordable at $213,700 median vs $342,400.
Median household income in Auburn is $56,123 compared to $58,763 in Opelika (-4.5%). Opelika offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Auburn spend roughly 22.1% of their income on rent, more than the 19.3% in Opelika.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (66.6°F vs 66.6°F). Opelika receives more rainfall at 48.8" per year compared to 48.8" in Auburn.
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Housing
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Rent by Bedroom Size
HUD Fair Market Rent (FY 2026) — metro area average
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)