- Payday loans in Opelika follow Alabama law (Alabama Deferred Presentment Services Act).
- Borrowing $300 at the state maximum costs $52.50 (17.5% fee).
- 2 credit unions are headquartered in Opelika; ask about small-dollar loans before borrowing.
Opelika at a glance
| Opelika | |
|---|---|
| Population (2024 Census estimate) | 35,005 |
| Change since 2020 | +12.7% (growing fast) |
| County | Lee County |
| Size rank among 389 Alabama places we cover | 15th |
| Share of Alabama’s population | 0.7% |
| Nearest larger city | Auburn (about 8 miles) |
| Credit unions headquartered in town (NCUA) | 2, 2 federal |
| Credit unions headquartered in Lee County | 3 |
| Other towns within 25 miles | 9 (about 157,789 residents) |
| Typical payday APR statewide (CRL 2023) | 456% |
Whether you borrow at a storefront in Auburn or online from Opelika, the lender must hold a Alabama license from the Alabama State Banking Department and follow state limits.
Credit unions in Opelika
These credit unions have their main office in Opelika, according to NCUA call report data (June 2026):
- East Alabama Community Federal Credit Union (federal charter — may offer payday alternative loans (PALs))
- Four Seasons Federal Credit Union (federal charter — may offer payday alternative loans (PALs))
Only federal credit unions can offer payday alternative loans (PALs), capped at 28% APR; state-chartered credit unions often have their own small-loan products. Membership rules apply, and only main offices are listed here; find branches near you with the NCUA Credit Union Locator. See how PALs work.
Payday loan rules that apply in Opelika
Key Alabama limits that apply to Opelika borrowers: maximum loan: $500 outstanding in total (checked through a statewide database); maximum fee: 17.5% of the amount advanced; loan term: 10 to 31 days. See the full Alabama payday loan rules.
What a $300 loan costs in Opelika
The Center for Responsible Lending put the typical APR on a $400 payday loan in Alabama at 456% (June 2023). For $300 at the state maximum, expect $52.50 (17.5% fee). Check any offer with our payday loan calculator.
Other help in Lee County before you borrow
- Credit union payday alternative loans (PALs): $200–$2,000 at no more than 28% APR. Search for a federal credit union in Opelika that offers them. See how PALs work.
- Your bank’s small-dollar loan, if it offers one. See bank small-dollar loans.
- Cash advance apps for $20–$500 based on your direct deposits. See apps compared.
- 211: call or text 211 for local help with rent, utilities and food.
Towns near Opelika
The nearest larger city is Auburn, about 8 miles away. See all 389 Alabama cities.
Need cash before payday?Send one free request to our lender network. We are not a lender; offers and rates come from lenders.
Request a loanFrequently asked questions
Are payday loans legal in Opelika?
Yes. Payday loans are legal in Opelika under Alabama state law, and lenders must be licensed by the Alabama State Banking Department.
How much does a payday loan cost in Opelika?
At Alabama’s maximum fee, borrowing $300 costs $52.50 (17.5% fee). The typical statewide APR was 456% in 2023.
Are there credit unions in Opelika?
Yes. NCUA data lists 2 credit unions with a main office in Opelika, including East Alabama Community Federal Credit Union and Four Seasons Federal Credit Union. Federal credit unions can offer payday alternative loans capped at 28% APR.
Sources
- U.S. Census Bureau — City and town population totals, Vintage 2024
- U.S. Census Bureau — 2024 Gazetteer files (place locations)
- NCUA — Credit union call report data, June 2026 (FOICU)
- NCLC — Consumer Credit Regulation: Alabama
- Lexology — Alabama establishes payday loan database
- Center for Responsible Lending — Red Alert Rates: APRs on $400 single-payment payday loans (June 2023)
- CDFI Fund — NCUA payday alternative loans summary