Durham, NC vs Mobile, AL: 105 vs 66

$1,412/mo ↑ 37%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 27%

$79,234/yr ↑ 55%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 36%

$355,300 ↑ 109%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 52%

$1,434/mo ↑ 41%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 29%

288,465

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Durham, NC and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $383/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $4,596/year.

Median household income is $28,144/year higher in Durham. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Durham is $355,300 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Durham slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Durham vs Mobile — common questions

Is Durham or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Durham and Mobile?

Median rent in Durham is $1,412/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $383/month.

Which city has higher income, Durham or Mobile?

Median household income is $79,234 in Durham and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $28,144/year higher in Durham.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Alabama?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Durham or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Durham has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,412/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: Durham, NC vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Durham

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons