Knoxville, TN vs Mobile, AL: 74 vs 66

$1,116/mo ↑ 8%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 8%

$50,994/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$51,090/yr ≈ Same

$214,000 ↑ 26%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 20%

$1,075/mo ↑ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 5%

193,721

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Knoxville, TN and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 74 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $87/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $1,044/year.

Median household income is $96/year higher in Mobile. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Knoxville is $214,000 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Knoxville vs Mobile — common questions

Is Knoxville or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 74 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Knoxville and Mobile?

Median rent in Knoxville is $1,116/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $87/month.

Which city has higher income, Knoxville or Mobile?

Median household income is $50,994 in Knoxville and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $96/year higher in Mobile.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Alabama?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Knoxville or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Knoxville has a cost index of 74 with median rent of $1,116/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: Knoxville, TN vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Knoxville

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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