Miami, FL vs Birmingham, AL: 129 vs 62

$1,657/mo ↑ 58%

Median Rent

$1,047/mo ↓ 37%

$59,390/yr ↑ 34%

Median Income

$44,376/yr ↓ 25%

$475,200 ↑ 243%

Home Value

$138,600 ↓ 71%

$1,666/mo ↑ 68%

Owner Costs

$991/mo ↓ 41%

446,663

Population

199,322

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Miami, FL and Birmingham, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 129 and 62 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $610/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $7,320/year.

Median household income is $15,014/year higher in Miami. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Miami is $475,200 compared to $138,600 in Birmingham.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Miami vs Birmingham — common questions

Is Miami or Birmingham cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 129 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Miami and Birmingham?

Median rent in Miami is $1,657/month and in Birmingham it's $1,047/month — a difference of $610/month.

Which city has higher income, Miami or Birmingham?

Median household income is $59,390 in Miami and $44,376 in Birmingham. Median household income is $15,014/year higher in Miami.

How do taxes compare between Florida and Alabama?

Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Miami or Birmingham?

It depends on your priorities. Miami has a cost index of 129 with median rent of $1,657/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: Miami, FL vs Birmingham, AL (2026)

Miami

Birmingham

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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