Memphis, TN vs Mobile, AL: 68 vs 66

$1,123/mo ↑ 9%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 8%

$51,211/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$51,090/yr ≈ Same

$157,100 ↓ 8%

Home Value

$170,300 ↑ 8%

$1,087/mo ↑ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 7%

629,063

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $94/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $1,128/year.

Median household income is $121/year higher in Memphis. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Mobile — common questions

Is Memphis or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 68 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Memphis and Mobile?

Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $94/month.

Which city has higher income, Memphis or Mobile?

Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $121/year higher in Memphis.

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 Memphis or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/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: Memphis, TN vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Memphis

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons