Houston, TX vs Mobile, AL: 88 vs 66

$1,313/mo ↑ 28%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 22%

$62,894/yr ↑ 23%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 19%

$253,400 ↑ 49%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 33%

$1,316/mo ↑ 30%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 23%

2,300,419

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $284/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $3,408/year.

Median household income is $11,804/year higher in Houston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over Alabama's 5.0% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Mobile — common questions

Is Houston or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Mobile?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $284/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Mobile?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $11,804/year higher in Houston.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Alabama?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/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: Houston, TX vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Houston

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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