Cost of Living in Birmingham, AL
Population: 199,322 • 2026 Data
$44,376
Median Household Income
-43% vs national
$1,047
Median Monthly Rent
-22% vs national
$138,600
Median Home Value
-59% vs national
6.1%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in Birmingham
The median home value in Birmingham, AL is $138,600. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $1,047, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $991.
Rent-to-income ratio: 28.3%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in Birmingham, AL is $44,376. The unemployment rate stands at 6.1%, with a labor force of 97,022 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.