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

Augusta

Georgia
67
VS

Birmingham

Alabama
62

Augusta is 5% more expensive than Birmingham.

$1,087/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,047/mo ↓ 4%
$53,134/yr ↑ 20%
Median Income
$44,376/yr ↓ 16%
$162,900 ↑ 18%
Home Value
$138,600 ↓ 15%
$1,053/mo ↑ 6%
Owner Costs
$991/mo ↓ 6%
201,504
Population
199,322

Tax Comparison

5.49%
Income Tax
5.0%
4.0%
Sales Tax
4.0%
0.92%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

24.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Augusta, GA and Birmingham, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 62 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $8,758/year higher in Augusta. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Augusta is $162,900 compared to $138,600 in Birmingham.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Augusta vs Birmingham — common questions

Is Augusta or Birmingham cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 67 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Augusta and Birmingham?
Median rent in Augusta is $1,087/month and in Birmingham it's $1,047/month — a difference of $40/month.
Which city has higher income, Augusta or Birmingham?
Median household income is $53,134 in Augusta and $44,376 in Birmingham. Median household income is $8,758/year higher in Augusta.
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 Augusta or Birmingham?
It depends on your priorities. Augusta has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,087/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.
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