Milwaukee, WI vs Birmingham, AL: 67 vs 62

$1,033/mo ↓ 1%

Median Rent

$1,047/mo ↑ 1%

$51,888/yr ↑ 17%

Median Income

$44,376/yr ↓ 14%

$172,000 ↑ 24%

Home Value

$138,600 ↓ 19%

$1,082/mo ↑ 9%

Owner Costs

$991/mo ↓ 8%

569,756

Population

199,322

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Birmingham, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 62 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $7,512/year higher in Milwaukee. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $138,600 in Birmingham.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Birmingham — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Birmingham cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 67 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Birmingham?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Birmingham it's $1,047/month — a difference of $14/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Birmingham?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $44,376 in Birmingham. Median household income is $7,512/year higher in Milwaukee.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Alabama?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Birmingham?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/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: Milwaukee, WI vs Birmingham, AL (2026)

Milwaukee

Birmingham

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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