Shorterville, AL β€” Cost of Living & Relocation Guide

Population: 2,929

πŸ“ Some data sourced from nearby metro area

85.5
Cost of Living
$40,714
Median Income
$479,500
Home Price

About Shorterville, AL

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Shorterville, AL. With a population of 2,929, Shorterville features a cost of living index of 85.5 (14.5% below the national average of 100). The local economy supports a median household income of $40,714 (46% below the national average), while the real estate market offers homes at a median price of $479,500.

Explore our detailed crime and safety data (85% below the national average), school ratings, tax information, and climate data below. Compare Shorterville with Huntsville or other cities.

πŸ“… Data last updated: February 2026 | Sources: U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, BLS

Shorterville, AL Quick Facts & Key Statistics

Cost of Living
85.5
↓ Below avg
US avg: 100
Population
2,929
Residents
Crime Rate
3.41
↓ Below avg
per 1,000 | US avg: 23.0
Median Income
$40,714
↓ Below avg
US avg: $75,000
Median Home Price
$479,500
↑ Above avg
US avg: $420,000
Average Rent
$1,372
↓ Below avg
/month | US avg: $1,405
Poverty Rate
12%
↑ Above avg
US avg: 11.5%
Unemployment
3.5%
↓ Below avg
US avg: 3.7%

πŸ’‘City Insights

Shorterville scores 2/10 for affordability, 10/10 for safety, and 6/10 for family-friendliness β€” an good overall profile. Its strongest aspect is safety, making it particularly suitable for those prioritizing security. However, affordability is a weaker area that prospective residents should consider carefully.

πŸ’°
Affordability
2/10
πŸ›‘οΈ
Safety
10/10
πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘©β€πŸ‘§β€πŸ‘¦
Family-Friendly
6/10
πŸ’Ό
Career Opportunities
5/10
🌳
Outdoor Activities
4/10
βœ“ Best for: Safety-conscious residents
⚠ Consider: High housing costs relative to income, Limited healthcare facilities

Living in Shorterville, AL

Shorterville is a small, unincorporated community situated in the southeastern part of Alabama, specifically in Dale County. Known for its quiet, rural charm, Shorterville offers a glimpse into Southern life with a friendly atmosphere and close-knit community. The area is characterized by rolling landscapes, lush greenery, and agricultural surroundings, making it ideal for those who appreciate outdoor activities and a slower pace of life. While Shorterville itself may not have extensive amenities, it is conveniently located near larger towns such as Ozark and Enterprise, which provide additional services, shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The community is also near Fort Rucker, a prominent military base, contributing to the area's diverse population. Overall, Shorterville embodies the tranquility of small-town living, attracting residents who value a peaceful lifestyle combined with the convenience of nearby urban amenities.

How Shorterville Compares

Cost of Living
85.5 US: 100
Home Price
$479,500 US: $420K
Median Income
$40,714 US: $75K
Crime Rate
3.41 US: 23
Unemployment
3.5% US: 3.7%

Black line indicates US average

πŸ’΅ Affordability Calculator

Based on the 28/36 rule: housing costs should not exceed 28% of your gross income. Compared against local median income of $40,714.

🏠

Income Needed to Buy

βœ— Stretch
$150k/year
Based on $479,500 median home price
Assumes 30-year mortgage at 7% with 20% down
🏒

Income Needed to Rent

⚠ Stretch
$59k/year
Based on $1372/month average rent
Annual income where rent = 28% of gross
πŸ’‘ 28/36 Rule: Housing ≀28% of gross income, total debt ≀36%. This is a guideline used by many lenders.

Pros & Cons of Moving to Shorterville, AL

βœ“

Pros

  • β€’ Friendly community vibe
  • β€’ Small-town charm
  • β€’ Family-oriented atmosphere
  • β€’ Access to outdoor activities
  • β€’ Job opportunities in healthcare
  • β€’ Rich cultural history
  • β€’ Local events and gatherings
  • β€’ Close-knit neighborhoods
  • β€’ Low cost of living
  • β€’ Fewer crowds and congestion
βœ—

Cons

  • β€’ High crime rates reported
  • β€’ Limited nightlife options
  • β€’ Healthcare access can vary
  • β€’ Racial tensions reported
  • β€’ Public transport issues
  • β€’ Political views are polarized
  • β€’ Fewer employment options
  • β€’ Limited kids activities
  • β€’ Lack of diverse restaurants
  • β€’ Schools may need improvement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of living in Shorterville, AL? β–Ό

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 β†’

How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Shorterville, AL? β–Ό

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 β†’

Is Shorterville, AL a safe place to live? β–Ό

Shorterville, AL is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. The crime rate is 3.4 per 1,000 residents. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Shorterville crime statistics β†’

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Shorterville, AL? β–Ό

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 β†’

What are the job opportunities like in Shorterville, AL? β–Ό

Shorterville, AL has an unemployment rate of 3.5%, which is below the national average of 3.7%. The median household income is $40,714, suggesting developing local economic conditions. View Shorterville employment & demographics β†’

Is Shorterville, AL growing? β–Ό

Shorterville, AL has a population of 2,929. As a smaller community, population trends depend on local housing development, job growth, and quality of life factors. The affordable housing market and competitive job market shape migration patterns. See Shorterville population demographics β†’

What are the best neighborhoods in Shorterville, AL? β–Ό

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. Explore Shorterville on our interactive map β†’

What is the commute like in Shorterville, AL? β–Ό

Commute times in Shorterville, AL vary by neighborhood and workplace location. As a smaller community, residents typically drive, as public transit is limited. The affordable cost of living may allow for housing closer to employment centers. Explore commute times on our map β†’

How are the taxes in Shorterville, AL? β–Ό

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 β†’

How does Shorterville, AL compare to Huntsville? β–Ό

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 3.41 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Compare Shorterville vs Huntsville β†’

What is the weather like in Shorterville, AL? β–Ό

Weather in Shorterville, AL varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Shorterville climate & environment data β†’

Explore Shorterville in Detail

πŸ“… Last Updated: February 2026

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), FBI Uniform Crime Reports, Bureau of Labor Statistics

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