Fontana, CA vs Mobile, AL: 146 vs 66

$1,733/mo ↑ 68%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 41%

$98,187/yr ↑ 92%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 48%

$558,500 ↑ 228%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 70%

$1,990/mo ↑ 96%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 49%

211,921

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fontana, CA and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 146 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $704/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $8,448/year.

Median household income is $47,097/year higher in Fontana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fontana is $558,500 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fontana vs Mobile — common questions

Is Fontana or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 146 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fontana and Mobile?

Median rent in Fontana is $1,733/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $704/month.

Which city has higher income, Fontana or Mobile?

Median household income is $98,187 in Fontana and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $47,097/year higher in Fontana.

How do taxes compare between California and Alabama?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Fontana or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Fontana has a cost index of 146 with median rent of $1,733/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: Fontana, CA vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Fontana

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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