RentData

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

Data review: HUD FY2025Sources: HUD, Zillow, CensusMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

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 FY2025
Studio
$844
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$1,009
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$1,168
6.3% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,527
Average
4 Bedrooms
$1,632
Average
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Median Home Value
$419,739
Source: Zillow ZHVI
Est. monthly payment
$2,234/mo
20% down · 30yr · 7%

Is Auburn, AL Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Affordability Index(30% income rule)

To rent a 2BR
$46,720/year
Local median income: $58,991
To buy a median home
$89,361/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $1,168/month and 20% down on a $419,739 home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in ALlargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome 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

$
Home Value
$419,739
2BR Rent
$1,168/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$2,234/mo
🏠 Buy

Buying breaks even after 5 years — worth it if you stay 5+ years.

Total monthly buy cost: $3,091/movs rent: $1,168/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Mortgage Calculator

Estimate monthly payment for $419,739 home at 7% rate

20% — $83,948
3%50%
Estimated Monthly Payment
$2,234
per month · 30 years · 7% APR
Loan Amount
$335,791
Total Paid
$804,250
Total Interest
$468,459
Estimated only. Excludes taxes, insurance, HOA. Rate from FRED.

Living in Auburn

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Auburn

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⚖️Rent vs Buy in Auburn

Is it cheaper to rent or buy here?

💵Rent Affordability in Auburn

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in AL

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⚖️Compare Auburn

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📋AL Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections