Baltimore, MD vs Birmingham, AL: 84 vs 62

$1,290/mo ↑ 23%

Median Rent

$1,047/mo ↓ 19%

$59,623/yr ↑ 34%

Median Income

$44,376/yr ↓ 26%

$219,300 ↑ 58%

Home Value

$138,600 ↓ 37%

$1,333/mo ↑ 35%

Owner Costs

$991/mo ↓ 26%

577,193

Population

199,322

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Birmingham, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 62 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $243/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $2,916/year.

Median household income is $15,247/year higher in Baltimore. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $138,600 in Birmingham.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Birmingham — common questions

Is Baltimore or Birmingham cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 84 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Birmingham?

Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Birmingham it's $1,047/month — a difference of $243/month.

Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Birmingham?

Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $44,376 in Birmingham. Median household income is $15,247/year higher in Baltimore.

How do taxes compare between Maryland and Alabama?

Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Baltimore or Birmingham?

It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/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: Baltimore, MD vs Birmingham, AL (2026)

Baltimore

Birmingham

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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