Seattle, WA vs Birmingham, AL: 196 vs 62

$1,998/mo ↑ 91%

Median Rent

$1,047/mo ↓ 48%

$121,984/yr ↑ 175%

Median Income

$44,376/yr ↓ 64%

$912,100 ↑ 558%

Home Value

$138,600 ↓ 85%

$2,220/mo ↑ 124%

Owner Costs

$991/mo ↓ 55%

741,440

Population

199,322

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Birmingham, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 62 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $951/month cheaper in Birmingham, saving renters about $11,412/year.

Median household income is $77,608/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $138,600 in Birmingham.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Birmingham — common questions

Is Seattle or Birmingham cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 196 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Seattle and Birmingham?

Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Birmingham it's $1,047/month — a difference of $951/month.

Which city has higher income, Seattle or Birmingham?

Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $44,376 in Birmingham. Median household income is $77,608/year higher in Seattle.

How do taxes compare between Washington and Alabama?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Seattle or Birmingham?

It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/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: Seattle, WA vs Birmingham, AL (2026)

Seattle

Birmingham

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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