Chicago, IL vs Mobile, AL: 100 vs 66

$1,380/mo ↑ 34%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 25%

$75,134/yr ↑ 47%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 32%

$315,200 ↑ 85%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 46%

$1,502/mo ↑ 48%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 32%

2,707,648

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $351/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $4,212/year.

Median household income is $24,044/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Chicago slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Mobile — common questions

Is Chicago or Mobile cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Mobile?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $351/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Mobile?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $24,044/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Alabama?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/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: Chicago, IL vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Chicago

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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