Quick answer
Overall prices in the Philadelphia, PA metro were 102.6 vs 91.6 in Birmingham, AL in 2024 (US = 100), so Philadelphia is 11.9% more expensive than Birmingham; housing rents differ by 57% (113.1 vs 71.9). A $75,000 income in Philadelphia buys about what $67,021 buys in Birmingham, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Philadelphia | Birmingham | Philadelphia vs Birmingham |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 102.6 | 91.6 | +11.9% |
| Goods | 96.8 | 96.4 | +0.5% |
| Housing (rents) | 113.1 | 71.9 | +57.5% |
| Utilities | 114.4 | 83.8 | +36.5% |
| Other services | 103.1 | 96.7 | +6.6% |
| All items, 2008 | 106.4 | 92.7 | +14.8% |
| $50,000 in Philadelphia equals in Birmingham | $44,681 | ||
| $100,000 in Philadelphia equals in Birmingham | $89,362 | ||
| $150,000 in Philadelphia equals in Birmingham | $134,043 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.