Birmingham, AL vs Lowell, MA: 62 vs 119

$1,047/mo ↓ 35%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 53%

$44,376/yr ↓ 42%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 72%

$138,600 ↓ 65%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 185%

$991/mo ↓ 41%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 69%

199,322

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $556/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $6,672/year.

Median household income is $31,829/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Lowell — common questions

Is Birmingham or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Lowell?

Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $556/month.

Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Lowell?

Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $31,829/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Massachusetts?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Birmingham or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Birmingham

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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