Irvine, CA vs Montgomery, AL: 256 vs 64

$2,893/mo ↑ 173%

Median Rent

$1,059/mo ↓ 63%

$129,647/yr ↑ 133%

Median Income

$55,687/yr ↓ 57%

$1,115,400 ↑ 651%

Home Value

$148,500 ↓ 87%

$2,904/mo ↑ 184%

Owner Costs

$1,023/mo ↓ 65%

308,160

Population

198,440

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Irvine, CA and Montgomery, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 256 and 64 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,834/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $22,008/year.

Median household income is $73,960/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Irvine is $1,115,400 compared to $148,500 in Montgomery.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Irvine vs Montgomery — common questions

Is Irvine or Montgomery cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Irvine and Montgomery?

Median rent in Irvine is $2,893/month and in Montgomery it's $1,059/month — a difference of $1,834/month.

Which city has higher income, Irvine or Montgomery?

Median household income is $129,647 in Irvine and $55,687 in Montgomery. Median household income is $73,960/year higher in Irvine.

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 Irvine or Montgomery?

It depends on your priorities. Irvine has a cost index of 256 with median rent of $2,893/mo, while Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with rent of $1,059/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Irvine, CA vs Montgomery, AL (2026)

Irvine

Montgomery

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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