Gardendale, AL vs Highland Lakes, AL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Gardendale is 27% cheaper than Highland Lakes. With a cost index of 86 vs 118, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Gardendale to Highland Lakes should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

When it comes to buying, median home values in Gardendale are $234,900 compared to $562,600 in Highland Lakes, a 58% gap.

Median household income in Gardendale is $81,215 compared to $169,833 in Highland Lakes (-52.2%). 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 (63.9°F vs 63.9°F). Highland Lakes receives more rainfall at 56.6" per year compared to 56.6" in Gardendale.