Mobile, AL vs Elgin, IL: 66 vs 90

$1,029/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,260/mo ↑ 22%

$51,090/yr ↓ 42%

Median Income

$88,316/yr ↑ 73%

$170,300 ↓ 33%

Home Value

$252,400 ↑ 48%

$1,016/mo ↓ 32%

Owner Costs

$1,502/mo ↑ 48%

185,097

Population

114,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $231/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $2,772/year.

Median household income is $37,226/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Elgin slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Elgin — common questions

Is Mobile or Elgin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 90 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Elgin?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $231/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Elgin?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $37,226/year higher in Elgin.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Illinois?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Elgin?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Elgin has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,260/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Mobile

Elgin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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