Mobile, AL vs Columbia, SC: 66 vs 80

$1,029/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 13%

$51,090/yr ↓ 8%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↑ 9%

$170,300 ↓ 30%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 43%

$1,016/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 15%

185,097

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $129/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $1,548/year.

Median household income is $4,563/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Columbia — common questions

Is Mobile or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Columbia?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $129/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Columbia?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $4,563/year higher in Columbia.

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 Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Columbia has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,158/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Mobile

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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