Birmingham, AL vs Salem, OR: 62 vs 105

$1,047/mo ↓ 21%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↑ 26%

$44,376/yr ↓ 38%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↑ 62%

$138,600 ↓ 64%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 176%

$991/mo ↓ 31%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↑ 45%

199,322

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $276/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $3,312/year.

Median household income is $27,524/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Salem — common questions

Is Birmingham or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Salem?

Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $276/month.

Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Salem?

Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $27,524/year higher in Salem.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Oregon?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Birmingham or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Salem, OR (2026)

Birmingham

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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