Average Rent in Clay County, AL↓ Rents falling 9.9% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in AL

Clay County, AL has rental prices ranging from $565/month to $1,133/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $630/month — 55% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $51,852/year, spending $630/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Clay County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $772/month, Clay County ranks #55 most expensive of the 58 cities tracked in Alabama — more affordable than 98% of all US cities in our data.

The Clay County Rental Market

The Clay County, AL area has a population of about 14,188 and 22% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Clay County, AL have fallen by $85/month (9.9%) over the past year, from $857 to $772. This rate of decrease is significant and reflects softening demand or increased inventory in the local market.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Clay County, AL without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $25,200. The local median household income of $51,852 exceeds that threshold by $26,652, making Clay County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Clay County, AL has an unemployment rate of 4.2%, 0.3 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.

Is Clay County, AL Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in Clay County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Clay County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.