Hayden, AL vs Valley Grande, AL
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Valley Grande is 25.2% cheaper than Hayden. With a cost index of 69 vs 87, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Valley Grande to Hayden should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Hayden is $1,175/month compared to $908/month in Valley Grande — a 29% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Valley Grande is more affordable at $126,700 median vs $233,500.
Median household income in Hayden is $80,625 compared to $61,141 in Valley Grande (+31.9%). While Hayden is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Hayden spend roughly 17.5% of their income on rent, less than the 17.8% in Valley Grande.
Climate-wise, Valley Grande is notably warmer with an average of 64.2°F compared to 59.9°F in Hayden. Hayden receives more rainfall at 58.7" per year compared to 53.4" in Valley Grande.
Income & Cost
Housing
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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)