Clay, AL vs Grand Bay, AL
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Grand Bay is 24.9% cheaper than Clay. With a cost index of 72 vs 90, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Grand Bay to Clay should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Clay is $1,373/month compared to $963/month in Grand Bay — a 43% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Grand Bay is more affordable at $143,800 median vs $198,400.
Median household income in Clay is $86,163 compared to $62,318 in Grand Bay (+38.3%). While Clay is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Clay spend roughly 19.1% of their income on rent, more than the 18.5% in Grand Bay.
Climate-wise, Grand Bay is notably warmer with an average of 67.8°F compared to 63.9°F in Clay. Grand Bay receives more rainfall at 61.7" per year compared to 56.6" in Clay.
Income & Cost
Housing
Salary Equivalency Calculator
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Rent by Bedroom Size
HUD Fair Market Rent (FY 2026) — metro area average
Everyday Prices
BLS Average Prices by metro area
Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)