Clay, AL vs Homewood, AL
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Clay is 23.4% cheaper than Homewood. With a cost index of 90 vs 117, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Clay to Homewood should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Clay is $1,373/month compared to $1,457/month in Homewood — a 6% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Clay is more affordable at $198,400 median vs $502,300.
Median household income in Clay is $86,163 compared to $108,386 in Homewood (-20.5%). The higher salaries in Homewood partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Clay spend roughly 19.1% of their income on rent, more than the 16.1% in Homewood.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (63.9°F vs 63.9°F). Homewood receives more rainfall at 56.6" 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)