Quick answer
Overall prices in the Columbus, OH metro were 95.5 vs 91.6 in Birmingham, AL in 2024 (US = 100), so Columbus is 4.2% more expensive than Birmingham; housing rents differ by 22% (87.9 vs 71.9). A $75,000 income in Columbus buys about what $71,995 buys in Birmingham, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Columbus | Birmingham | Columbus vs Birmingham |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 95.5 | 91.6 | +4.2% |
| Goods | 93.6 | 96.4 | -2.9% |
| Housing (rents) | 87.9 | 71.9 | +22.4% |
| Utilities | 95.5 | 83.8 | +14.0% |
| Other services | 98.9 | 96.7 | +2.3% |
| All items, 2008 | 96.6 | 92.7 | +4.2% |
| $50,000 in Columbus equals in Birmingham | $47,997 | ||
| $100,000 in Columbus equals in Birmingham | $95,993 | ||
| $150,000 in Columbus equals in Birmingham | $143,990 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.