Is Cambridge more expensive than Birmingham?

Cambridge is 16.6% more expensive than Birmingham overall. Rent is 53.6% higher, groceries 6.7% more expensive, and restaurants 3.0% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Birmingham or Cambridge?

Birmingham has a purchasing power index of 169.9 while Cambridge has 140.8 (NYC = 100). Birmingham offers better purchasing power.

Birmingham vs Cambridge: Cambridge is 16.6% more expensive, rent 54% higher (2026)

Category	🇬🇧 Birmingham	🇬🇧 Cambridge	Difference
Cost of Living	52.3	61.0	+16.6%
Rent	28.9	44.4	+53.6%
Groceries	63.1	67.3	+6.7%
Restaurants	80.7	78.3	-3.0%
Purchasing Power	169.9	140.8	-17.1%

Data from October 2026 · Cost of living: Numbeo, blended with Expatistan and LivingCost where available. Rent, groceries, restaurants and purchasing power: Numbeo (NYC = 100) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

Explore

🇬🇧 Cost of Living in Birmingham

Explore

🇬🇧 Cost of Living in Cambridge

Explore

🇬🇧 Should I Move to Birmingham?

Explore

🇬🇧 Should I Move to Cambridge?

Tax Calculators

See detailed income tax brackets and net salary calculations for Birmingham and Cambridge.

🇬🇧 United Kingdom Tax Calculator

Income tax rates, brackets & net salary

🇬🇧 Birmingham vs 🇬🇧 Cambridge

Add your salary for a personalized comparison