Chatom, AL vs Dauphin Island, AL

The cost of living difference between Chatom, AL and Dauphin Island, AL is dramatic. Chatom is 51.1% cheaper than Dauphin Island, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Chatom has a cost index of 57 while Dauphin Island sits at 116, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Chatom is $367/month compared to $1,750/month in Dauphin Island — a 79% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Chatom is more affordable at $172,700 median vs $387,400.

Median household income in Chatom is $39,444 compared to $64,615 in Dauphin Island (-39%). The higher salaries in Dauphin Island partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Chatom spend roughly 11.2% of their income on rent, less than the 32.5% in Dauphin Island. The Chatom ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, Dauphin Island is notably warmer with an average of 67.8°F compared to 64°F in Chatom. Dauphin Island receives more rainfall at 61.7" per year compared to 56.9" in Chatom.