Chelsea, AL vs Highland Lakes, AL
Chelsea is moderately more affordable than Highland Lakes, with a 12% lower cost of living index. Chelsea scores 104 compared to 118 for Highland Lakes, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Highland Lakes can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.
When it comes to buying, median home values in Chelsea are $339,400 compared to $562,600 in Highland Lakes, a 40% gap.
Median household income in Chelsea is $110,056 compared to $169,833 in Highland Lakes (-35.2%). While Highland Lakes is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (64.4°F vs 63.9°F). Highland Lakes receives more rainfall at 56.6" per year compared to 56.2" in Chelsea.
Income & Cost
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)