Affordable & Income-Based Housing in Opelika

Affordability in Opelika, AL

According to the Census ACS 5-Year (2024), the median monthly rent in Opelika is $950, against a median household income of $65,004 per year. About 31% of Opelika residents rent their homes, reflecting a market where income-based and HUD-assisted housing can make a meaningful difference for cost-burdened renters.

Safety

According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the Opelika Police Department reported a violent crime rate of 578 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Crime rates are not directly comparable across cities due to differences in reporting practices and local definitions.

Of the 7 HUD-assisted properties in Opelika, none are located in a FEMA-designated high-risk flood zone, based on flood map data.

Getting Around Opelika

According to Walk Score, the area around assisted properties in Opelika scores 54 (Somewhat Walkable) and a Bike Score of 38. No Transit Score is available, reflecting the limited fixed-route transit options typical of smaller Alabama cities.

• Walk Score: 54 - Somewhat Walkable
• Bike Score: 38

Households without a vehicle may want to confirm proximity to key destinations before applying, as most errands are likely to require a car.

Schools

According to the NCES Common Core of Data, 14 public schools across 3 districts serve Opelika, including 8 elementary, 3 middle, and 3 high schools. Ratings vary by school and district, so renters should check the assigned schools for a specific address before applying.

Cost of Renting in Opelika

The median household income in Opelika is $65,004 per year, according to the Census ACS 5-Year estimate. The citywide median rent is $950 per month, also per Census ACS 5-Year data.

Affordable and income-based housing in Opelika can significantly reduce that cost burden. Rents at HUD-assisted and income-based properties are typically calculated as a percentage of your household income rather than set at market rates.

• Median household income: $65,004/year (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Median market rent: $950/month (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Share of residents who rent: 31% (Census ACS 5-Year)

Environment & Flood Risk

All 7 HUD-assisted properties in Opelika have been mapped for flood zone exposure. None of them fall in a high-risk flood zone, which is a reassuring finding for renters concerned about flood exposure.