Birmingham, AL vs Columbia, SC: 62 vs 80

$1,047/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 11%

$44,376/yr ↓ 20%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↑ 25%

$138,600 ↓ 43%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 76%

$991/mo ↓ 15%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 18%

199,322

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $111/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $1,332/year.

Median household income is $11,277/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Columbia — common questions

Is Birmingham or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Columbia?

Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $111/month.

Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Columbia?

Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $11,277/year higher in Columbia.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and South Carolina?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Birmingham or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Columbia has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,158/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Birmingham

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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