Austin, TX vs Mobile, AL: 134 vs 66

$1,655/mo ↑ 61%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 38%

$91,461/yr ↑ 79%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 44%

$512,700 ↑ 201%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 67%

$1,747/mo ↑ 72%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 42%

967,862

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Austin, TX and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 134 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $626/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $7,512/year.

Median household income is $40,371/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Austin is $512,700 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Austin residents a significant tax advantage over Alabama's 5.0% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Austin vs Mobile — common questions

Is Austin or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 134 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Austin and Mobile?

Median rent in Austin is $1,655/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $626/month.

Which city has higher income, Austin or Mobile?

Median household income is $91,461 in Austin and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $40,371/year higher in Austin.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Alabama?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Austin or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Austin has a cost index of 134 with median rent of $1,655/mo, while Mobile has a cost index of 66 with rent of $1,029/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Austin, TX vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Austin

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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