Boston, MA vs Mobile, AL: 176 vs 66

$2,093/mo ↑ 103%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 51%

$94,755/yr ↑ 85%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 46%

$710,400 ↑ 317%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 76%

$2,176/mo ↑ 114%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 53%

663,972

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boston, MA and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 176 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,064/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $12,768/year.

Median household income is $43,665/year higher in Boston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boston is $710,400 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Mobile slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boston vs Mobile — common questions

Is Boston or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 176 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boston and Mobile?

Median rent in Boston is $2,093/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $1,064/month.

Which city has higher income, Boston or Mobile?

Median household income is $94,755 in Boston and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $43,665/year higher in Boston.

How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and Alabama?

Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Boston or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Boston has a cost index of 176 with median rent of $2,093/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: Boston, MA vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Boston

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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