Moving from Madison to Birmingham (2026)
Birmingham has a COL index of 84 vs 97 for Madison (100 = US average). You'd pay about 13% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Birmingham to match your Madison lifestyle
Based on the 13% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Madison | Equivalent in Birmingham |
|---|---|
| $40K | $34,639 |
| $50K | $43,299 |
| $60K | $51,959 |
| $75K | $64,948 |
| $80K | $69,278 |
| $100K | $86,598 |
| $120K | $103,918 |
| $150K | $129,897 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Madison vs Birmingham
| Expense | Madison | Birmingham |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,259 | $4,428 |
| 1BR rent | $1,650 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $384 | $357 |
| Transport | $62 | $40 |
| Utilities | $162 | $175 |
| Internet | $63 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $1,938 | $2,598 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Birmingham cheaper than Madison?
Yes. Birmingham has a cost of living index of 84 vs 97 for Madison (100 = US average). That's about 13% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Madison to Birmingham?
On a $75K salary, moving from Madison to Birmingham could save roughly $491/month on core expenses. That's ~$5,892/year.
What salary do I need in Birmingham to match my Madison lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Madison, you'd need roughly $64,948/year in Birmingham. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only