Birmingham, AL vs Odessa, TX: 62 vs 83

$1,047/mo ↓ 21%

Median Rent

$1,322/mo ↑ 26%

$44,376/yr ↓ 39%

Median Income

$73,030/yr ↑ 65%

$138,600 ↓ 33%

Home Value

$208,000 ↑ 50%

$991/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,251/mo ↑ 26%

199,322

Population

114,080

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Odessa, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 83 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $275/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $3,300/year.

Median household income is $28,654/year higher in Odessa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $208,000 in Odessa.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Odessa residents a significant tax advantage over Alabama's 5.0% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Odessa — common questions

Is Birmingham or Odessa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 83 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Odessa?

Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Odessa it's $1,322/month — a difference of $275/month.

Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Odessa?

Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $73,030 in Odessa. Median household income is $28,654/year higher in Odessa.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Texas?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Birmingham or Odessa?

It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Odessa has a cost index of 83 with rent of $1,322/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Odessa, TX (2026)

Birmingham

Odessa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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