Birmingham, AL vs Elgin, IL: 62 vs 90

$1,047/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$1,260/mo ↑ 20%

$44,376/yr ↓ 50%

Median Income

$88,316/yr ↑ 99%

$138,600 ↓ 45%

Home Value

$252,400 ↑ 82%

$991/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$1,502/mo ↑ 52%

199,322

Population

114,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $213/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $2,556/year.

Median household income is $43,940/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Elgin slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Elgin — common questions

Is Birmingham or Elgin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 90 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Elgin?

Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $213/month.

Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Elgin?

Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $43,940/year higher in Elgin.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Illinois?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Birmingham or Elgin?

It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Elgin has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,260/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Birmingham

Elgin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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