Cost of Living in Bessemer, AL
Population 25,655 · Alabama · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Bessemer run well below national norms — a median of $37,844 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $130,000). Around 31% of residents live below the federal poverty line, a rate that tends to correlate with the income and housing figures above.
Geographically, Bessemer sits roughly 15 miles southwest of Birmingham. Housing prices track closely with Birmingham's $139,000 median.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Bessemer
The median home value in Bessemer is $129,800 — 57% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $922/month, 30% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $37,844/year is 49% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 8.8%, above the national average of 4.8%. Alabama's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 9.2%. Overall, Bessemer has a cost of living index of 54 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 46% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Bessemer, AL?
Bessemer has a cost index of 54 (100 = national average). It is 46% below the national average.
What is average rent in Bessemer, AL?
The median gross rent in Bessemer is $922 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Bessemer?
The median home value in Bessemer is $129,800 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Bessemer?
The median household income in Bessemer is $37,844 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Bessemer, AL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Bessemer is 9.2%. The Alabama state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Bessemer, AL affordable?
Yes, Bessemer is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 54 — about 46% below the US national average of 100.
Bessemer at a Glance
- Population
- 25,655
- Median Income
- $37,844
- Home Value
- $129,800
- Median Rent
- $922/mo
- Unemployment
- 8.8%
- Sales Tax
- 9.2%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Alabama Rankings
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