Mobile, AL vs Downey, CA: 66 vs 169

$1,029/mo ↓ 46%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 84%

$51,090/yr ↓ 42%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 71%

$170,300 ↓ 77%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 328%

$1,016/mo ↓ 49%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 97%

185,097

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $863/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $10,356/year.

Median household income is $36,310/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Downey — common questions

Is Mobile or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Downey?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $863/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Downey?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $36,310/year higher in Downey.

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 Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Mobile

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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