Originally Posted by JerryFF
Given historical precedent, it's likely that Southwest will have a $99 each way sale that will be matched by the other airlines that fly these routes. Since your plans are so far in the future, I personally would not buy any tickets at this time and would be looking for something for $250 or less.
Ditto that. LAX and BHM are both Southwest cities, which means that in about 5-6 months, you should be able to snag $99 (plus tax) each way fares between the two - especially if the exact dates of travel are at all flexible.