Gadsden, AL

Very Low · 46

Alabama · Population 33,617 · Updated March 2026

$787
Median Rent / Month
$38,699
Median Income
$101,900
Median Home Value
$695
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Gadsden

24.4%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Alabama

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

5.0%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
4.0%
Sales Tax
0.41%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$9,444
Annual Rent
$1,935
State Income Tax
$418
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Gadsden is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 46 (where 100 equals the national median), Gadsden residents can expect to pay median rent of $787/month while earning a median household income of $38,699/year.

The median home value in Gadsden, AL is $101,900, with typical monthly owner costs around $695 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 24.4% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Alabama has a moderate income tax rate of 5.0%. Combined with a 4.0% sales tax rate and 0.41% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Gadsden.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Gadsden

What is the cost of living in Gadsden, AL?
The cost of living index in Gadsden, AL is 46 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $787, median household income is $38,699/year, and the median home value is $101,900.
Is Gadsden, AL affordable?
Yes, Gadsden is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 46. The rent-to-income ratio is 24.4%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Gadsden, AL?
The median gross rent in Gadsden, AL is $787 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $9,444.
What is the median household income in Gadsden?
The median household income in Gadsden, AL is $38,699 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Alabama?
Alabama has a top income tax rate of 5.0%, a sales tax of 4.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.41%.