Birmingham, AL vs Surprise, AZ: 62 vs 126

$1,047/mo ↓ 45%

Median Rent

$1,917/mo ↑ 83%

$44,376/yr ↓ 52%

Median Income

$93,371/yr ↑ 110%

$138,600 ↓ 65%

Home Value

$396,000 ↑ 186%

$991/mo ↓ 38%

Owner Costs

$1,587/mo ↑ 60%

199,322

Population

149,519

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Surprise, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $870/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $10,440/year.

Median household income is $48,995/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $396,000 in Surprise.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Surprise slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Surprise — common questions

Is Birmingham or Surprise cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Surprise?

Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Surprise it's $1,917/month — a difference of $870/month.

Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Surprise?

Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $93,371 in Surprise. Median household income is $48,995/year higher in Surprise.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Arizona?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Birmingham or Surprise?

It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Surprise has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Surprise, AZ (2026)

Birmingham

Surprise

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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