Quick answer
Overall prices in the Austin, TX metro were 98.1 vs 91.6 in Birmingham, AL in 2024 (US = 100), so Austin is 7.0% more expensive than Birmingham; housing rents differ by 68% (120.4 vs 71.9). A $75,000 income in Austin buys about what $70,089 buys in Birmingham, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Austin | Birmingham | Austin vs Birmingham |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 98.1 | 91.6 | +7.0% |
| Goods | 93.8 | 96.4 | -2.7% |
| Housing (rents) | 120.4 | 71.9 | +67.5% |
| Utilities | 82.0 | 83.8 | -2.1% |
| Other services | 96.2 | 96.7 | -0.5% |
| All items, 2008 | 99.6 | 92.7 | +7.4% |
| $50,000 in Austin equals in Birmingham | $46,726 | ||
| $100,000 in Austin equals in Birmingham | $93,451 | ||
| $150,000 in Austin equals in Birmingham | $140,177 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.