Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
46% cheaper
Birmingham is 46% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $40,781 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 San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Birmingham costs $165,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $635,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Birmingham versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Birmingham scores 96 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Birmingham (91) are lower than San Diego (107).
Median household income in Birmingham is $38,178 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Birmingham.
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