Daphne, AL vs Gulf Shores, AL

Daphne is moderately more affordable than Gulf Shores, with a 5.3% lower cost of living index. Daphne scores 99 compared to 104 for Gulf Shores, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Gulf Shores can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Daphne is $1,337/month compared to $1,363/month in Gulf Shores — a 2% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Daphne is more affordable at $309,700 median vs $367,000.

Median household income in Daphne is $86,479 compared to $73,873 in Gulf Shores (+17.1%). Daphne offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Daphne spend roughly 18.6% of their income on rent, less than the 22.1% in Gulf Shores.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (66°F vs 66°F). Gulf Shores receives more rainfall at 65.8" per year compared to 65.8" in Daphne.