Baton Rouge, LA vs Mobile, AL: 73 vs 66

$1,044/mo ↑ 1%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 1%

$49,944/yr ↓ 2%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↑ 2%

$224,500 ↑ 32%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 24%

$1,043/mo ↑ 3%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 3%

223,699

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baton Rouge, LA and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 73 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $1,146/year higher in Mobile. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baton Rouge is $224,500 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

Louisiana has a lower income tax rate, making Baton Rouge slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baton Rouge vs Mobile — common questions

Is Baton Rouge or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 73 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Baton Rouge and Mobile?

Median rent in Baton Rouge is $1,044/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $15/month.

Which city has higher income, Baton Rouge or Mobile?

Median household income is $49,944 in Baton Rouge and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $1,146/year higher in Mobile.

How do taxes compare between Louisiana and Alabama?

Louisiana has 4.25% income tax, 4.45% sales tax, and 0.55% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Baton Rouge or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Baton Rouge has a cost index of 73 with median rent of $1,044/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: Baton Rouge, LA vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Baton Rouge

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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