Moving from Fayetteville to Birmingham (2026)

Birmingham has a COL index of 84 vs 84 for Fayetteville (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 0% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$31 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
84 โ†’ 84
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200 โ†’ $1,200
per month
State tax
4.5% โ†’ 5%
income tax
COL difference
84 โ†’ 84
0% more expensive

Salary needed in Birmingham to match your Fayetteville lifestyle

Based on the 0% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in FayettevilleEquivalent in Birmingham
$40K$40,000
$50K$50,000
$60K$60,000
$75K$75,000
$80K$80,000
$100K$100,000
$120K$120,000
$150K$150,000

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$29/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Fayetteville vs Birmingham

ExpenseFayettevilleBirmingham
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,428
1BR rent$1,200$1,200
Groceries$353$357
Transport$42$40
Utilities$148$175
Internet$58$58
Left after essentials$2,658$2,598

Frequently asked questions

Is Birmingham cheaper than Fayetteville?

No. Birmingham has a cost of living index of 84 vs 84 for Fayetteville (100 = US average). That's about 0% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Fayetteville to Birmingham?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Birmingham run about $31/month more than Fayetteville. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Birmingham to match my Fayetteville lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Fayetteville, you'd need roughly $75,000/year in Birmingham. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only