Cost of Living in Shorterville, AL
Shorterville cost of living index: 85.5 (below the US average). Median home price: $479,500.
Updated 2026 • Based on 1 local zip code
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
% below the national average
Housing
Data from 1 zip code
Housing costs in Shorterville, AL based on real market data from 1 local zip code.
Considering a move to Shorterville, AL? With a median home price of 479500.0, the affordability potential is attractive for buyers. However, the housing index of 82.6 indicates that there may be limited market availability, potentially making it challenging to find suitable homes. The absence of rental data, showing both average rent for a 2BR apartment and house as 1372.0 and , suggests that this area might lean towards homeownership rather than renting. Assess current local amenities, job opportunities, and community dynamics to round out your decision.
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in Shorterville, AL could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $15.03, while natural gas is priced at $21.76 per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $102.4 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in Shorterville, AL
How far does your money go in Shorterville? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in Shorterville
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a Shorterville, AL household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For Shorterville, that's $40,714 ÷ 85.5 × 100 = $47,619. This means a household earning the median income in Shorterville has the equivalent buying power of $47,619 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
With a cost of living index of 85.5, Shorterville is more affordable than the national average. The median household income of $40,714 effectively stretches to $47,619 in purchasing power — meaning everyday expenses like housing, groceries, and utilities cost less here. This makes Shorterville, AL an attractive destination for budget-conscious families, remote workers, and retirees looking to maximize their income.
Housing is particularly affordable, with a median home price of $479,500. Renters and first-time homebuyers in Shorterville benefit from lower monthly costs compared to national averages, leaving more room in the budget for savings and quality of life.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in Shorterville
Pros
- • Friendly community vibe
- • Small-town charm
- • Family-oriented atmosphere
- • Access to outdoor activities
- • Job opportunities in healthcare
- • Rich cultural history
- • Local events and gatherings
- • Close-knit neighborhoods
- • Low cost of living
- • Fewer crowds and congestion
Cons
- • High crime rates reported
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Healthcare access can vary
- • Racial tensions reported
- • Public transport issues
- • Political views are polarized
- • Fewer employment options
- • Limited kids activities
- • Lack of diverse restaurants
- • Schools may need improvement
💡City Insights
Shorterville scores 2/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an average overall profile. However, affordability is a weaker area that prospective residents should consider carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Shorterville, AL? ▼
The cost of living in Shorterville, AL is 14% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 86 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Shorterville, AL? ▼
In Shorterville, AL, The median home price is $479,500. requiring approximately $145,607 annual income to afford. Average rent is $1,372/month (requiring ~$54,880/year income). The local median household income is $40,714, making homeownership challenging for typical residents. Explore Shorterville real estate data →
Is Shorterville, AL a safe place to live? ▼
Shorterville, AL is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Shorterville crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Shorterville, AL? ▼
To live comfortably in Shorterville, AL and afford a median-priced home of $479,500, you would typically need a household income of $119,875 to $149,844 per year. The local median household income is $40,714. Renting requires approximately $54,880/year (at $1,372/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in Shorterville, AL? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Shorterville, AL depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods farther from the city center tend to offer more affordable options.
How are the taxes in Shorterville, AL? ▼
Tax rates in Shorterville, AL include state and local components. The cost of living index of 86 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Shorterville tax information →
How does Shorterville, AL compare to nearby cities? ▼
Shorterville, AL offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 86, median home prices of $479,500, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in Shorterville, AL? ▼
Weather in Shorterville, AL varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Shorterville climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in Shorterville, AL? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in Shorterville, AL include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 1 zip code in Shorterville, AL.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 36373 | $479,500 | — | — | 2 | — |
Explore More About Shorterville, AL
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin