Mobile, AL vs Costa Mesa, CA: 66 vs 228

$1,029/mo ↓ 57%

Median Rent

$2,395/mo ↑ 133%

$51,090/yr ↓ 54%

Median Income

$110,073/yr ↑ 115%

$170,300 ↓ 84%

Home Value

$1,054,700 ↑ 519%

$1,016/mo ↓ 59%

Owner Costs

$2,462/mo ↑ 142%

185,097

Population

110,538

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Costa Mesa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 228 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,366/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $16,392/year.

Median household income is $58,983/year higher in Costa Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $1,054,700 in Costa Mesa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Costa Mesa — common questions

Is Mobile or Costa Mesa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 228 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Costa Mesa?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Costa Mesa it's $2,395/month — a difference of $1,366/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Costa Mesa?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $110,073 in Costa Mesa. Median household income is $58,983/year higher in Costa Mesa.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and California?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Costa Mesa?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Costa Mesa has a cost index of 228 with rent of $2,395/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Costa Mesa, CA (2026)

Mobile

Costa Mesa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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