Mobile, AL vs Ann Arbor, MI: 66 vs 121

$1,029/mo ↓ 34%

Median Rent

$1,552/mo ↑ 51%

$51,090/yr ↓ 37%

Median Income

$81,089/yr ↑ 59%

$170,300 ↓ 61%

Home Value

$435,100 ↑ 155%

$1,016/mo ↓ 38%

Owner Costs

$1,638/mo ↑ 61%

185,097

Population

121,179

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $523/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $6,276/year.

Median household income is $29,999/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Ann Arbor slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Mobile or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 121 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Ann Arbor?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $523/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Ann Arbor?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $29,999/year higher in Ann Arbor.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Michigan?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Ann Arbor?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Mobile

Ann Arbor

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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