Madison, WI vs Mobile, AL: 103 vs 66

$1,364/mo ↑ 33%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 25%

$76,983/yr ↑ 51%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 34%

$346,900 ↑ 104%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 51%

$1,476/mo ↑ 45%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 31%

275,568

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $335/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $4,020/year.

Median household income is $25,893/year higher in Madison. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Mobile — common questions

Is Madison or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 103 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Mobile?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $335/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Mobile?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $25,893/year higher in Madison.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Alabama?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Madison or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/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: Madison, WI vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Madison

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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