Economist Salary in Birmingham, Alabama
The median economist salary in Birmingham, AL is $102,546 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 3.4% above the Alabama state average.
Economist Pay in Birmingham: What to Expect (2026)
Birmingham offers a median economist salary of $102,546, which is $3,418 above the Alabama state average of $99,128. Compared to the national median of $113,940, Birmingham pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Birmingham's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for economists in Birmingham spans from $55,800 at the 10th percentile to $178,200 at the 90th percentile — a $122,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $58,500, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $166,500. With a population of 197,575, Birmingham is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Economist Salary in Birmingham by Experience
In Birmingham, an entry-level economist earns around $58,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $166,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Birmingham, AL
| Percentile | Birmingham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $55,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $73,800 |
| Median (50th) | $102,546 |
| 75th Percentile | $139,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $178,200 |
Economist Salary in Other Alabama Cities
How to Become a Economist in Birmingham
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Birmingham and the surrounding Alabama area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Birmingham may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Birmingham
Browse open economist positions in Birmingham, AL: