Bessemer, AL vs Clanton, AL
Bessemer, AL and Clanton, AL have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.2% difference in their overall index. Bessemer scores 71 while Clanton scores 74 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Bessemer is $922/month compared to $948/month in Clanton — a 3% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Bessemer is more affordable at $129,800 median vs $158,200.
Median household income in Bessemer is $37,844 compared to $49,952 in Clanton (-24.2%). While Clanton is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Bessemer spend roughly 29.2% of their income on rent, more than the 22.8% in Clanton.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (64.4°F vs 63°F). Clanton receives more rainfall at 56.4" per year compared to 56.2" in Bessemer.
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Housing
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Rent by Bedroom Size
HUD Fair Market Rent (FY 2026) — metro area average
Everyday Prices
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)