Quick answer
Overall prices in the Washington, DC metro were 108.9 vs 91.6 in Birmingham, AL in 2024 (US = 100), so Washington is 18.8% more expensive than Birmingham; housing rents differ by 110% (151.1 vs 71.9). A $75,000 income in Washington buys about what $63,125 buys in Birmingham, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Washington | Birmingham | Washington vs Birmingham |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 108.9 | 91.6 | +18.8% |
| Goods | 104.8 | 96.4 | +8.8% |
| Housing (rents) | 151.1 | 71.9 | +110.3% |
| Utilities | 106.7 | 83.8 | +27.3% |
| Other services | 102.3 | 96.7 | +5.8% |
| All items, 2008 | 114.8 | 92.7 | +23.8% |
| $50,000 in Washington equals in Birmingham | $42,083 | ||
| $100,000 in Washington equals in Birmingham | $84,167 | ||
| $150,000 in Washington equals in Birmingham | $126,250 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.