Atlanta, GA vs Birmingham, AL: 122 vs 62

$1,617/mo ↑ 54%

Median Rent

$1,047/mo ↓ 35%

$81,938/yr ↑ 85%

Median Income

$44,376/yr ↓ 46%

$420,600 ↑ 203%

Home Value

$138,600 ↓ 67%

$1,695/mo ↑ 71%

Owner Costs

$991/mo ↓ 42%

499,287

Population

199,322

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Atlanta, GA and Birmingham, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 122 and 62 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $570/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $6,840/year.

Median household income is $37,562/year higher in Atlanta. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Atlanta is $420,600 compared to $138,600 in Birmingham.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Birmingham slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Atlanta vs Birmingham — common questions

Is Atlanta or Birmingham cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 122 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Atlanta and Birmingham?

Median rent in Atlanta is $1,617/month and in Birmingham it's $1,047/month — a difference of $570/month.

Which city has higher income, Atlanta or Birmingham?

Median household income is $81,938 in Atlanta and $44,376 in Birmingham. Median household income is $37,562/year higher in Atlanta.

How do taxes compare between Georgia and Alabama?

Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Atlanta or Birmingham?

It depends on your priorities. Atlanta has a cost index of 122 with median rent of $1,617/mo, while Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with rent of $1,047/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Atlanta, GA vs Birmingham, AL (2026)

Atlanta

Birmingham

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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