Cost of Living in Birmingham, MI
Population 21,612 · Michigan · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Birmingham's housing market reflects its status as a high-earning metro: $713,000 for a typical home, 134% above the US median, paired with household incomes around $153,125 that put it in the upper third of the state.
Geographically, Birmingham sits roughly 10 miles west of Sterling Heights. Median home values run roughly 173% higher than Sterling Heights' $261,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Birmingham
The median home value in Birmingham is $712,700 — 134% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,891/month, 44% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $153,125/year is 105% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.0%, below the national average of 4.8%. Michigan's top state income tax rate is 4.3% and the combined sales tax is 6.0%. Overall, Birmingham has a cost of living index of 198 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 98% more 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 Birmingham, MI?
Birmingham has a cost index of 198 (100 = national average). It is 98% above the national average.
What is average rent in Birmingham, MI?
The median gross rent in Birmingham is $1,891 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Birmingham?
The median home value in Birmingham is $712,700 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Birmingham?
The median household income in Birmingham is $153,125 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Birmingham, MI?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Birmingham is 6.0%. The Michigan state income tax top rate is 4.3%.
Is Birmingham, MI affordable?
Birmingham is above average in cost of living, with an index of 198 — about 98% higher than the national average.
Birmingham at a Glance
- Population
- 21,612
- Median Income
- $153,125
- Home Value
- $712,700
- Median Rent
- $1,891/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.0%
- Sales Tax
- 6.0%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Michigan Rankings
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