Let the numbers do the talking.
Auburn, AL vs Opelika, AL
Auburn, AL vs Opelika, AL: What the data shows
Auburn, AL is in Auburn, AL while Opelika, AL is in Opelika, AL — both in the same state. On home prices, Opelika, AL is the more affordable option at $140,000 median — $60,000 less than Auburn, AL's $200,000. WYLT rates Auburn, AL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Opelika, AL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Auburn, AL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Opelika, AL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Auburn, AL has Low flood risk and Opelika, AL has Low flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Opelika, AL has the higher school rating — Auburn, AL rates 6.9/10 and Opelika, AL rates 7.2/10.
| Category | Auburn, AL | Opelika, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $200K | $140K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $800 | $700 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $45K ✓ Higher income | $40K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 3/100 ✓ Better transit | 1/100 |
| Bike Score | 2/100 ✓ More bikeable | 1/100 |
| Commute | 45 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 | 7.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with school‑age kidsCollege students and staffRemote workers who need a low‑cost base | Families seeking affordable housingRetirees wanting a quiet townSmall business owners |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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