Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
26% cheaper
Birmingham is 26% more affordable than Tacoma. A $75,000 salary in Tacoma is equivalent to $55,769 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 · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Birmingham has a housing index of 67 while Tacoma sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Birmingham costs $165,000 compared to $400,000 in Tacoma, a difference of $235,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Birmingham versus $1,600 in Tacoma.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Birmingham scores 96 while Tacoma scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Birmingham (91) are lower than Tacoma (106).
Median household income in Birmingham is $38,178 compared to $58,974 in Tacoma. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Birmingham.
Amazon affiliate links