Birmingham, AL vs Waco, TX: 62 vs 72

$1,047/mo ↓ 5%

Median Rent

$1,098/mo ↑ 5%

$44,376/yr ↓ 14%

Median Income

$51,468/yr ↑ 16%

$138,600 ↓ 31%

Home Value

$199,600 ↑ 44%

$991/mo ↓ 9%

Owner Costs

$1,094/mo ↑ 10%

199,322

Population

141,925

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Birmingham, AL and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 62 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $51/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $612/year.

Median household income is $7,092/year higher in Waco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Birmingham is $138,600 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Waco residents a significant tax advantage over Alabama's 5.0% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Birmingham vs Waco — common questions

Is Birmingham or Waco cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 72 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Birmingham and Waco?

Median rent in Birmingham is $1,047/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $51/month.

Which city has higher income, Birmingham or Waco?

Median household income is $44,376 in Birmingham and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $7,092/year higher in Waco.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Texas?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Birmingham or Waco?

It depends on your priorities. Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with median rent of $1,047/mo, while Waco has a cost index of 72 with rent of $1,098/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Birmingham, AL vs Waco, TX (2026)

Birmingham

Waco

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons