Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Birmingham

Alabama
62
VS

Tuscaloosa

Alabama
73

Birmingham is 15% cheaper than Tuscaloosa.

$1,047/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,005/mo ↓ 4%
$44,376/yr ↓ 9%
Median Income
$48,536/yr ↑ 9%
$138,600 ↓ 41%
Home Value
$236,600 ↑ 71%
$991/mo ↓ 5%
Owner Costs
$1,038/mo ↑ 5%
199,322
Population
107,699

Tax Comparison

5.0%
Income Tax
5.0%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
0.41%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

28.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $4,160/year higher in Tuscaloosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Alabama.

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Birmingham or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 73 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Tuscaloosa?
Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $42/month.
Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Tuscaloosa?
Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $4,160/year higher in Tuscaloosa.
How do taxes compare between Alabama and Alabama?
Both cities are in Alabama and share the same state tax rates: 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Birmingham or Tuscaloosa?
It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Tuscaloosa has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,005/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Birmingham details → View Tuscaloosa details →

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