Birmingham, AL vs Cary, NC: 62 vs 135

$1,047/mo ↓ 35%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 55%

$44,376/yr ↓ 66%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 192%

$138,600 ↓ 74%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 279%

$991/mo ↓ 43%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 76%

199,322

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $574/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $6,888/year.

Median household income is $85,023/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Cary slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Cary — common questions

Is Birmingham or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Cary?

Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $574/month.

Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Cary?

Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $85,023/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and North Carolina?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Birmingham or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Cary has a cost index of 135 with rent of $1,621/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Cary, NC (2026)

Birmingham

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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