City Profile
Auburn, Alabama
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Auburn, Alabama, often referred to as "The Loveliest Village on the Plains," is a vibrant city in Lee County, known for its strong connection to Auburn University. Founded in 1836 and incorporated in 1839, the city's character is deeply intertwined with the university, which was established in 1856 as the East Alabama Male College. This relationship has fostered a dynamic environment that blends Southern charm with youthful energy and a strong sense of community. People are drawn to Auburn for its welcoming atmosphere, nationally ranked public school system, and abundant amenities, making it a desirable place for families, professionals, and students alike.
Alabama, located in the southeastern United States, is characterized by its Southern charm, rich history, and diverse natural beauty, ranging from the Appalachian foothills to Gulf Coast beaches. The state's economy has diversified beyond its agricultural roots, with major industries now including automotive manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, banking, and steel production. Living in Alabama generally offers a low cost of living, particularly for housing, which is significantly below the national average. The climate is humid subtropical, featuring hot, humid summers and mild winters with ample sunshine for much of the year, supporting an outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
How this 71/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 78 / 100 | 78.0 | 30% | 23.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 96.0 | 48.8 | 25% | 12.2 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $63,668 Income needed to live here: $55,000 Unemployment rate: 2.5% | 69.2 | 20% | 13.8 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 5.2% Job growth rate: 4% | 100.0 | 15% | 15.0 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 10% | 7.0 |
| Overall score | 71.4 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=95 ✓ perfect), last refreshed
25 July 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
Featured Events
Happening in Auburn
Featured and sponsored events in Auburn.
Local Directory
Businesses in Auburn
Featured local businesses in Auburn.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Auburn, Alabama, is generally more affordable than the national average, with an overall cost of living index of 96, meaning it is 4% lower than the national average. Housing expenses are a significant factor in this affordability, being approximately 20% lower than the national average. However, utility prices in Auburn are about 6% higher than the national average, largely due to the long, humid Alabama summers that necessitate heavy air conditioning use. Grocery prices are also slightly lower, at about 4% below the national average, while transportation costs are around 10.9% lower.
Income
Salary Insights
Auburn's economy is robust and growing, with the city ranking among the top 10 Best-Performing Small Cities in 2026 by the Milken Institute. This recognition highlights the area's capacity for sustained labor market growth and an environment that fosters innovation. The Auburn-Opelika metropolitan area has seen an average of 198 new jobs per month over the past five years, with a job growth rate of 4.0% from July 2023 to July 2024. Key industries driving Auburn's economy include Services, Manufacturing, Leisure and Hospitality, Education, and Professional and Business Services. Auburn University plays a central role, contributing significantly to the state's economy and creating over 30,000 jobs beyond its direct employment. The city also boasts a thriving and innovative business community, with high-paying sectors like professional and business services, financial activities, and the information sector experiencing notable employment growth in 2024.
The average salary in Auburn is $51,096 per year. You would need approximately $55,000 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Getting around Auburn primarily relies on personal vehicles, as the city is largely car-dependent. The average commute time for residents is 19.9 minutes. While some areas, particularly around Downtown and Auburn University, are considered walkable, the city's average Walk Score is 28. Auburn University operates the Tiger Transit system, which provides free bus service for students, connecting major university buildings, residence halls, and off-campus apartments. However, general public transit options are limited, contributing to the city's medium car dependency.
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Head to Head
Compare Auburn
Community Q&A
Questions about Auburn
What people ask about living in and moving to Auburn, Alabama.
How are the public schools rated in Auburn?
Auburn is served by a public school district that generally receives ratings at or above state averages, with a mix of elementary, middle, and high schools. Test scores, graduation rates, and extracurricular offerings are publicly reported on the state department of education website, where you can compare individual schools. Visiting schools during open houses or reviewing parent‑teacher association feedback can giv...
How does Auburn's cost of living compare to the national average?
Auburn's cost‑of‑living index is 96, which means it is slightly below the national average of 100. Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation tend to be a few percent cheaper than in many larger U.S. cities. Your take‑home pay will stretch a bit further, especially when combined with the local average salary of $51,096 per year. For a more detailed breakdown, you can consult the city's economi...
What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Auburn?
The average rent in Auburn is $2,032 per month across all unit sizes. One‑bedroom apartments in central areas usually sit near that average, while larger units or those farther from the city core may be slightly lower. To gauge current market rates, check local rental listings on popular housing websites or contact property management firms that operate in the area. Also, consider looking at university housing boards...
What recreational activities are popular in Auburn?
Auburn offers a mix of outdoor and cultural attractions. The city maintains several parks with walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds, while nearby lakes and greenways provide opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and cycling. The downtown area hosts seasonal festivals, farmers’ markets, and live‑music venues. The university’s cultural calendar includes theater productions, art exhibitions, and public lectures...
What should I know about utilities and services when moving to Auburn?
When you move to Auburn, you’ll need to set up electricity, water, natural gas (if applicable), internet, and waste collection. The city’s utility providers are listed on the municipal website, where you can find contact numbers, online account setup, and typical service fees. Most apartments include water and trash in the rent, but it’s best to confirm with the landlord. For internet and cable, several regional prov...
What’s the overall vibe of living in Auburn?
Auburn blends the energy of a college town with the relaxed pace of a smaller community. The presence of a major university brings a youthful, cultural, and sports‑centric atmosphere, especially during the academic year, while the surrounding residential neighborhoods offer quieter, family‑friendly environments. Community events, local eateries, and outdoor spaces create a balanced lifestyle that appeals to students,...
What are the biggest employment sectors in Auburn?
Auburn's economy is anchored by higher education, manufacturing, and health services. The presence of a major university drives many academic, research, and support roles, while nearby industrial parks host firms in automotive, aerospace, and related manufacturing. Health‑care providers also employ a sizable workforce. For up‑to‑date job listings, use statewide employment portals, the city's workforce development off...
Is Auburn considered a safe place to live?
Auburn has a safety score of 78 out of 100, indicating a relatively safe environment compared to many U.S. cities. The city’s police department publishes annual crime statistics, and neighborhood watch programs are active in most residential areas. For a detailed view, you can review the latest safety reports on the city’s official website or consult third‑party crime mapping tools that let you explore incidents by z...
What public transportation options are available in Auburn?
Auburn’s public transit is managed by the regional transit authority, which operates a network of bus routes covering the city core, university campus, and surrounding neighborhoods. Service frequencies are higher during weekday peak hours and lower on weekends. For longer trips, regional intercity bus services connect Auburn to nearby larger cities. You can view current schedules, fare structures, and route maps on...
Where can I find hospitals or urgent care in Auburn?
Auburn is served by a regional medical center that provides emergency, inpatient, and specialty services, as well as several urgent‑care clinics scattered throughout the city. The medical center’s website lists physician directories, appointment portals, and patient resources. For primary care, you can search the state health department’s provider directory, which lets you filter by specialty, insurance acceptance, a...
Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Auburn? Add your own.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
City Guide
Explore Auburn
Free Quotes
Get quotes from local pros in Auburn
Tell us what you need and we’ll pass it to companies that serve your area. It’s free, and there’s no obligation.
Compare Auburn with any city
See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.
Start Comparing