Mobile, AL vs Dayton, OH: 66 vs 50

$1,029/mo ↑ 19%

Median Rent

$866/mo ↓ 16%

$51,090/yr ↑ 18%

Median Income

$43,454/yr ↓ 15%

$170,300 ↑ 83%

Home Value

$93,200 ↓ 45%

$1,016/mo ↑ 22%

Owner Costs

$833/mo ↓ 18%

185,097

Population

136,741

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Dayton, OH, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 50 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $163/month cheaper in Dayton, saving renters about $1,956/year.

Median household income is $7,636/year higher in Mobile. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $93,200 in Dayton.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Dayton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Dayton — common questions

Is Mobile or Dayton cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Dayton is cheaper to live in with an index of 50 compared to 66 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Dayton?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Dayton it's $866/month — a difference of $163/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Dayton?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $43,454 in Dayton. Median household income is $7,636/year higher in Mobile.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Ohio?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Dayton?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Dayton has a cost index of 50 with rent of $866/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Dayton, OH (2026)

Mobile

Dayton

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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