Quick answer
Overall prices in the San Jose, CA metro were 110.4 vs 91.6 in Birmingham, AL in 2024 (US = 100), so San Jose is 20.5% more expensive than Birmingham; housing rents differ by 195% (211.9 vs 71.9). A $75,000 income in San Jose buys about what $62,245 buys in Birmingham, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | San Jose | Birmingham | San Jose vs Birmingham |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 110.4 | 91.6 | +20.5% |
| Goods | 105.2 | 96.4 | +9.1% |
| Housing (rents) | 211.9 | 71.9 | +194.9% |
| Utilities | 156.7 | 83.8 | +86.9% |
| Other services | 100.3 | 96.7 | +3.7% |
| All items, 2008 | 119.3 | 92.7 | +28.7% |
| $50,000 in San Jose equals in Birmingham | $41,497 | ||
| $100,000 in San Jose equals in Birmingham | $82,994 | ||
| $150,000 in San Jose equals in Birmingham | $124,490 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.