Birmingham, AL vs Ventura, CA: 62 vs 183

$1,047/mo ↓ 50%

Median Rent

$2,101/mo ↑ 101%

$44,376/yr ↓ 56%

Median Income

$100,407/yr ↑ 126%

$138,600 ↓ 82%

Home Value

$778,700 ↑ 462%

$991/mo ↓ 53%

Owner Costs

$2,118/mo ↑ 114%

199,322

Population

109,900

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Ventura, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 183 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,054/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $12,648/year.

Median household income is $56,031/year higher in Ventura. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $778,700 in Ventura.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Ventura — common questions

Is Birmingham or Ventura cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 183 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Ventura?

Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Ventura it's $2,101/month — a difference of $1,054/month.

Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Ventura?

Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $100,407 in Ventura. Median household income is $56,031/year higher in Ventura.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and California?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Birmingham or Ventura?

It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Ventura has a cost index of 183 with rent of $2,101/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Ventura, CA (2026)

Birmingham

Ventura

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons