Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Norman, OK (2026)

Birmingham

Alabama
62
VS

Norman

Oklahoma
76

Birmingham is 18% cheaper than Norman.

$1,047/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,064/mo ↑ 2%
$44,376/yr ↓ 32%
Median Income
$65,060/yr ↑ 47%
$138,600 ↓ 42%
Home Value
$239,300 ↑ 73%
$991/mo ↓ 12%
Owner Costs
$1,121/mo ↑ 13%
199,322
Population
128,714

Tax Comparison

5.0%
Income Tax
4.75%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.5%
0.41%
Property Tax
0.9%

Affordability

28.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Norman, OK, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $20,684/year higher in Norman. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $239,300 in Norman.

Oklahoma has a lower income tax rate, making Norman slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Norman — common questions

Is Birmingham or Norman cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 76 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Norman?
Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Norman it's $1,064/month — a difference of $17/month.
Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Norman?
Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $65,060 in Norman. Median household income is $20,684/year higher in Norman.
How do taxes compare between Alabama and Oklahoma?
Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax.
Should I move to Birmingham or Norman?
It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Norman has a cost index of 76 with rent of $1,064/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Birmingham details → View Norman details →

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