Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
44% cheaper
Birmingham is 44% more affordable than Long Beach. A $75,000 salary in Long Beach is equivalent to $42,097 in Birmingham.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Alabama salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Birmingham has a housing index of 67 while Long Beach sits at 236 (national average = 100). The median home in Birmingham costs $165,000 compared to $700,000 in Long Beach, a difference of $535,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Birmingham versus $2,200 in Long Beach.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Birmingham scores 96 while Long Beach scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Birmingham (91) are lower than Long Beach (103).
Median household income in Birmingham is $38,178 compared to $60,567 in Long Beach. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Birmingham.
Amazon affiliate links