Average Rent in Daphne, AL↓ Rents falling 8.7% YoY🔺 3rd priciest in AL
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 239,945
Market Overview
Daphne, AL has rental prices ranging from $972/month to $1,975/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,043/month — 25% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $75,019/year, spending $1,043/month on a 1-bedroom represents 17% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Daphne Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,244/month, Daphne ranks #3 most expensive of the 58 cities tracked in Alabama — pricier than 84% of all US cities in our data.
The Daphne Rental Market
The Daphne, AL area has a population of about 239,945 and 23% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Daphne, AL have fallen by $118/month (8.7%) over the past year, from $1,362 to $1,244. This rate of decrease is significant and reflects softening demand or increased inventory in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Daphne, AL without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $41,720. The local median household income of $75,019 exceeds that threshold by $33,299, making Daphne relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in Daphne, AL is $330,724, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 22.2. With a break-even horizon of approximately 22 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Daphne, 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 | — |
| Montgomery | $848 | $888 | $1,055 | $1,345 | — |
| Columbus | $883 | $937 | $1,108 | $1,463 | — |
Rent or Buy in Daphne?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Daphne data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $330,724 home at 7% rate
Living in Daphne
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 DaphneIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
💵Rent Affordability in DaphneSalary needed to afford rent here
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