Mobile, AL vs Charleston, SC: 66 vs 128

$1,029/mo ↓ 37%

Median Rent

$1,632/mo ↑ 59%

$51,090/yr ↓ 43%

Median Income

$90,038/yr ↑ 76%

$170,300 ↓ 64%

Home Value

$469,100 ↑ 175%

$1,016/mo ↓ 40%

Owner Costs

$1,688/mo ↑ 66%

185,097

Population

152,014

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Charleston, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 128 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $603/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $7,236/year.

Median household income is $38,948/year higher in Charleston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $469,100 in Charleston.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Charleston — common questions

Is Mobile or Charleston cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 128 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Charleston?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Charleston it's $1,632/month — a difference of $603/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Charleston?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $90,038 in Charleston. Median household income is $38,948/year higher in Charleston.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and South Carolina?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Charleston?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Charleston has a cost index of 128 with rent of $1,632/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Charleston, SC (2026)

Mobile

Charleston

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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