Birmingham, AL vs Downey, CA: 62 vs 169

$1,047/mo ↓ 45%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 81%

$44,376/yr ↓ 49%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 97%

$138,600 ↓ 81%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 426%

$991/mo ↓ 50%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 102%

199,322

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $845/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $10,140/year.

Median household income is $43,024/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Downey — common questions

Is Birmingham or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Downey?

Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $845/month.

Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Downey?

Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $43,024/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and California?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Birmingham or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Downey, CA (2026)

Birmingham

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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