Chicago, IL vs Birmingham, AL: 100 vs 62

$1,380/mo ↑ 32%

Median Rent

$1,047/mo ↓ 24%

$75,134/yr ↑ 69%

Median Income

$44,376/yr ↓ 41%

$315,200 ↑ 127%

Home Value

$138,600 ↓ 56%

$1,502/mo ↑ 52%

Owner Costs

$991/mo ↓ 34%

2,707,648

Population

199,322

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Birmingham, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 62 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $333/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $3,996/year.

Median household income is $30,758/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $138,600 in Birmingham.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Chicago slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Birmingham — common questions

Is Chicago or Birmingham cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Birmingham?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Birmingham it's $1,047/month — a difference of $333/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Birmingham?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $44,376 in Birmingham. Median household income is $30,758/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Alabama?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Birmingham?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with rent of $1,047/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Birmingham, AL (2026)

Chicago

Birmingham

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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