Mobile, AL vs Athens, GA: 66 vs 83

$1,029/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,162/mo ↑ 13%

$51,090/yr ↓ 1%

Median Income

$51,655/yr ↑ 1%

$170,300 ↓ 37%

Home Value

$271,800 ↑ 60%

$1,016/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,163/mo ↑ 14%

185,097

Population

126,987

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Athens, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 83 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $133/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $1,596/year.

Median household income is $565/year higher in Athens. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $271,800 in Athens.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Athens — common questions

Is Mobile or Athens cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 83 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Athens?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Athens it's $1,162/month — a difference of $133/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Athens?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $51,655 in Athens. Median household income is $565/year higher in Athens.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Georgia?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Athens?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Athens has a cost index of 83 with rent of $1,162/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Athens, GA (2026)

Mobile

Athens

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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