Gulf Shores, AL vs Highland Lakes, AL

Gulf Shores is moderately more affordable than Highland Lakes, with a 11.7% lower cost of living index. Gulf Shores 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 Gulf Shores are $367,000 compared to $562,600 in Highland Lakes, a 35% gap.

Median household income in Gulf Shores is $73,873 compared to $169,833 in Highland Lakes (-56.5%). 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 (66°F vs 63.9°F). Gulf Shores receives more rainfall at 65.8" per year compared to 56.6" in Highland Lakes.