Mobile, AL vs Cary, NC: 66 vs 135

$1,029/mo ↓ 37%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 58%

$51,090/yr ↓ 61%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 153%

$170,300 ↓ 68%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 208%

$1,016/mo ↓ 42%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 72%

185,097

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $592/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $7,104/year.

Median household income is $78,309/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Cary slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Cary — common questions

Is Mobile or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Cary?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $592/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Cary?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $78,309/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and North Carolina?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Cary has a cost index of 135 with rent of $1,621/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Cary, NC (2026)

Mobile

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons