Quick answer
Overall prices in the Baltimore, MD metro were 104.5 vs 91.6 in Birmingham, AL in 2024 (US = 100), so Baltimore is 14.0% more expensive than Birmingham; housing rents differ by 64% (118.2 vs 71.9). A $75,000 income in Baltimore buys about what $65,781 buys in Birmingham, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Baltimore | Birmingham | Baltimore vs Birmingham |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 104.5 | 91.6 | +14.0% |
| Goods | 102.4 | 96.4 | +6.2% |
| Housing (rents) | 118.2 | 71.9 | +64.5% |
| Utilities | 110.2 | 83.8 | +31.5% |
| Other services | 101.5 | 96.7 | +5.0% |
| All items, 2008 | 106.4 | 92.7 | +14.8% |
| $50,000 in Baltimore equals in Birmingham | $43,854 | ||
| $100,000 in Baltimore equals in Birmingham | $87,709 | ||
| $150,000 in Baltimore equals in Birmingham | $131,563 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.