Birmingham, AL vs Tempe, AZ: 62 vs 120

$1,047/mo ↓ 35%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 55%

$44,376/yr ↓ 43%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 75%

$138,600 ↓ 67%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 204%

$991/mo ↓ 36%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 57%

199,322

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $576/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $6,912/year.

Median household income is $33,267/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Tempe — common questions

Is Birmingham or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Tempe?

Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $576/month.

Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Tempe?

Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $33,267/year higher in Tempe.

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 Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Tempe has a cost index of 120 with rent of $1,623/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Birmingham

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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