Irvine, CA vs Birmingham, AL: 256 vs 62

$2,893/mo ↑ 176%

Median Rent

$1,047/mo ↓ 64%

$129,647/yr ↑ 192%

Median Income

$44,376/yr ↓ 66%

$1,115,400 ↑ 705%

Home Value

$138,600 ↓ 88%

$2,904/mo ↑ 193%

Owner Costs

$991/mo ↓ 66%

308,160

Population

199,322

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Irvine, CA and Birmingham, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 256 and 62 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,846/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $22,152/year.

Median household income is $85,271/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Irvine is $1,115,400 compared to $138,600 in Birmingham.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Irvine vs Birmingham — common questions

Is Irvine or Birmingham cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Irvine and Birmingham?

Median rent in Irvine is $2,893/month and in Birmingham it's $1,047/month — a difference of $1,846/month.

Which city has higher income, Irvine or Birmingham?

Median household income is $129,647 in Irvine and $44,376 in Birmingham. Median household income is $85,271/year higher in Irvine.

How do taxes compare between California and Alabama?

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

Should I move to Irvine or Birmingham?

It depends on your priorities. Irvine has a cost index of 256 with median rent of $2,893/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: Irvine, CA vs Birmingham, AL (2026)

Irvine

Birmingham

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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