Average Rent in Auburn, AL↑ Rents rising 6.3% YoY🔺 4th priciest in AL
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 196,614
Market Overview
Auburn, AL has rental prices ranging from $844/month to $1,632/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,009/month — 28% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $58,991/year, spending $1,009/month on a 1-bedroom represents 21% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Auburn Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,168/month, Auburn ranks #4 most expensive of the 58 cities tracked in Alabama — pricier than 80% of all US cities in our data.
The Auburn Rental Market
The Auburn, AL area has a population of about 196,614 and 34% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Auburn, AL have risen by $69/month (6.3%) over the past year, from $1,099 to $1,168. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Auburn, AL without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $40,360. The local median household income of $58,991 exceeds that threshold by $18,631, making Auburn relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in Auburn, AL is $419,739, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 29.9. With a break-even horizon of approximately 30 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Auburn, AL Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in ALlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birmingham | $998 | $1,144 | $1,267 | $1,583 | — |
| Huntsville | $928 | $1,071 | $1,248 | $1,609 | — |
| Washington County | $810 | $908 | $1,092 | $1,435 | — |
| Mobile | $812 | $908 | $1,094 | $1,441 | — |
| Montgomery | $848 | $888 | $1,055 | $1,345 | — |
| Columbus | $883 | $937 | $1,108 | $1,463 | — |
Rent or Buy in Auburn?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Auburn data
Buying breaks even after 5 years — worth it if you stay 5+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $419,739 home at 7% rate
Living in Auburn
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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⚖️Rent vs Buy in AuburnIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
💵Rent Affordability in AuburnSalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in ALSee how Auburn ranks statewide
⚖️Compare AuburnSide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
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