In the U.S., more people are leaving cities due to the frightening cost of living.

Rent is rising, grocery shopping lightens wallets, and buying a home feels increasingly like a distant dream. However, there is a city that seems to defy this trend with its remarkably low prices: Birmingham, Alabama.

Birmingham's cost of living index is about 82 when the national average is set at 100.

While the number alone may not convey much, the difference becomes clear when compared to major U.S. cities. It's the kind of place that makes you say, "Is this price really possible in America?"

The biggest difference is in housing costs. In many cases, over half of living expenses in the U.S. come from housing, but in Birmingham, the game changes right from the start. You can find a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for around $1,200 a month. Considering the national average ranges from $1,500 to $2,200, that's a significant difference. Single-family homes can often be found in the low $200,000s.

People who were living on tight budgets in Atlanta often find themselves in much larger homes in Birmingham for the same amount of money. For those looking to buy a home, the difference is even more pronounced due to the reduced burden of mortgage payments.

Grocery prices are also relatively reasonable. For a family of four, a monthly grocery bill of around $800 to $950 is manageable. Of course, if you dine out frequently or insist on only organic foods, that could change, but for typical living, it's less burdensome than the national average.

However, there is one reality to consider: there aren't many Korean markets. If you frequently buy Korean ingredients, you'll need to factor in the cost of traveling to a Korean market or ordering online. While living expenses are low, not everything is conveniently close.

Car maintenance costs are also not significantly burdensome compared to the national average. Birmingham is essentially a car-dependent city, so gas and insurance costs are ongoing expenses.

Still, true to its Southern roots, gas prices are relatively low, and utilities often average around $200 a month.

The affordability of Birmingham becomes even clearer when compared to surrounding cities.

It's slightly less expensive than Montgomery, and there's a noticeable difference compared to Huntsville, where home prices have recently surged.

Compared to Atlanta or Nashville, it feels like a completely different world.

However, many people overlook one important fact.

Low prices often indicate that the average income of local residents is not high. Birmingham also has a lower wage level compared to the national average. In other words, while it may feel like paradise for those working remotely or earning salaries comparable to other regions, it's not necessarily a comfortable living for those earning average local wages.

Nonetheless, the healthcare infrastructure is stronger than expected. Thanks to the UAB medical system, access to major hospitals is good, and healthcare professionals and researchers are consistently moving to the area. This makes it a city where those in medical-related professions can consider both living costs and job opportunities.

When Koreans settle in Birmingham, they often first look at Hoover or Vestavia Hills.

These areas are relatively safe, have stable living environments, and are home to Korean restaurants and churches.

Ultimately, Birmingham is not a flashy metropolis. It's not a city that never sleeps, nor is it a hub for cutting-edge companies.

Instead, it can be a very realistic option for those who are stressed by high living expenses.

Living in the U.S. teaches you that the scariest thing is not crime or traffic jams, but the monthly outflow of living expenses.

In that sense, Birmingham is aptly nicknamed one of the "least painful cities for your wallet" in the U.S. However, before deciding to relocate, it's wise to consider not just the cost of living but also your profession, expected income, and lifestyle.