Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 91.6 in Birmingham, AL in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 13.0% more expensive than Birmingham; housing rents differ by 56% (112.0 vs 71.9). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $66,348 buys in Birmingham, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Birmingham | Chicago vs Birmingham |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 91.6 | +13.0% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 96.4 | +11.3% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 71.9 | +55.9% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 83.8 | -0.3% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 96.7 | +3.9% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 92.7 | +13.8% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Birmingham | $44,232 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Birmingham | $88,464 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Birmingham | $132,696 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.