Average Rent in Montgomery, AL↓ Rents falling 3.4% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 385,159
Market Overview
Montgomery, AL has rental prices ranging from $848/month to $1,665/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $888/month — 37% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $62,746/year, spending $888/month on a 1-bedroom represents 17% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Montgomery Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,055/month, Montgomery ranks #10 most expensive of the 58 cities tracked in Alabama — pricier than 71% of all US cities in our data.
The Montgomery Rental Market
The Montgomery, AL area has a population of about 385,159 and 35% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Montgomery, AL have fallen by $37/month (3.4%) over the past year, from $1,092 to $1,055. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Montgomery, AL without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $35,520. The local median household income of $62,746 exceeds that threshold by $27,226, making Montgomery relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in Montgomery, AL is $152,703, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 12.1. The break-even point between renting and buying is roughly 12 years — renting offers more flexibility for shorter stays, while buying makes more sense for long-term residents.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Montgomery, 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 | — |
| Columbus | $883 | $937 | $1,108 | $1,463 | — |
| Greene County | $813 | $819 | $1,074 | $1,294 | — |
Rent or Buy in Montgomery?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Montgomery data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $152,703 home at 7% rate
Living in Montgomery
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 MontgomeryIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
💵Rent Affordability in MontgomerySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in ALSee how Montgomery ranks statewide
⚖️Compare MontgomerySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
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