Birmingham, AL vs Fairfield, CA: 62 vs 167

$1,047/mo ↓ 52%

Median Rent

$2,191/mo ↑ 109%

$44,376/yr ↓ 57%

Median Income

$102,321/yr ↑ 131%

$138,600 ↓ 77%

Home Value

$592,500 ↑ 327%

$991/mo ↓ 55%

Owner Costs

$2,226/mo ↑ 125%

199,322

Population

119,985

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Fairfield, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 167 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,144/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $13,728/year.

Median household income is $57,945/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $592,500 in Fairfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Fairfield — common questions

Is Birmingham or Fairfield cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 167 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Fairfield?

Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Fairfield it's $2,191/month — a difference of $1,144/month.

Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Fairfield?

Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $102,321 in Fairfield. Median household income is $57,945/year higher in Fairfield.

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 Fairfield?

It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with rent of $2,191/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Birmingham

Fairfield

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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