Two Alabama Cities New Top: You ‘all ready to hear about the two Alabama cities keeping’ it affordable? Let’s dive into why they made the top 10 least expensive urban areas in the Quarter 3 2023 Cost of Living Index by The Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER).
Florence + Annison-Calhoun County
Well, ain’t Anniston-Calhoun County and Florence holding’ their ground at #6 and #7 in the Quarter 3 2023 Cost of Living Index? With a cost of living index of 83.0, almost 20 percent below the national average, these Alabama cities are keeping’ it easy on the wallet. The index considers factors like housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods and services. Let’s see how they stack up!
The Cost of Living Index measures regional differences in the cost of consumer goods and services, excluding taxes and non-consumer expenditures, for professional and managerial households in the top income quintile. Covering 61 different items, prices are collected quarterly by chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, and university applied economic centers in each participating urban area.
The Council for Community and Economic Research
Florence ain’t just sitting’ pretty in the overall top 10; it’s also bagging’ the #4 spot for the least expensive apartment rents in Q3. While the national average is strutting’ at $1,547, Florence is keeping’ it real at an average of $753. Now, that’s some budget-friendly living’!
More to love about Florence + Anniston
Florence and Anniston, more than just budget-friendly havens, offer a blend of charm and character. Here’s a glimpse of some must-visit places in these delightful cities:
Cypress Row: A family-owned gem soon to grace downtown, promising a unique experience.
Court Street Books: Winter brings the warmth of literature and coffee to Florence with this charming bookstore and coffee shop.
Lulus Place: Fresh to downtown Anniston, winning hearts with its unique charm and offerings.
Anniston City Market: Recently unveiled, this beautiful market marks a grand beginning, inviting the community to celebrate.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What is the fastest growing city in Alabama?
Pike Road, the fastest-growing city in Alabama, has claimed the top spot. It became official in 1997 and is situated in Montgomery County. This year, it gained 707 new residents, marking a 6.6% increase.
What is the second largest city in Alabama?
Huntsville takes the crown for the biggest city in Alabama, boasting a population of 220,854 as of 2023. Trailing behind are Montgomery, home to 196,010 people, and Birmingham with 192,557 residents. Huntsville’s demographic makeup is a vibrant mix, reflecting its ongoing growth.
What is the largest apartment complex in Alabama?
Situated on 101 acres on Centennial Drive in Hoover, The Park at Hoover (formerly known as Landmark at Magnolia Glen) boasts a total of 1,080 apartment units. The complex was constructed in two phases, with Phase I, featuring 920 units, opening its doors in 1988.
What city in Alabama has the most people?
Huntsville has the most people, with 215,006 residents, while Oak Hill has the fewest, with just 14. As for land area, Huntsville also takes the top spot, spanning 209.05 square miles (541.4 km2), while McMullen is the smallest at just 0.11 square miles (0.28 km2).