Mobile, AL vs Fairfield, CA: 66 vs 167

$1,029/mo ↓ 53%

Median Rent

$2,191/mo ↑ 113%

$51,090/yr ↓ 50%

Median Income

$102,321/yr ↑ 100%

$170,300 ↓ 71%

Home Value

$592,500 ↑ 248%

$1,016/mo ↓ 54%

Owner Costs

$2,226/mo ↑ 119%

185,097

Population

119,985

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Fairfield, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 167 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,162/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $13,944/year.

Median household income is $51,231/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $592,500 in Fairfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Fairfield — common questions

Is Mobile or Fairfield cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 167 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Fairfield?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Fairfield it's $2,191/month — a difference of $1,162/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Fairfield?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $102,321 in Fairfield. Median household income is $51,231/year higher in Fairfield.

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 Fairfield?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with rent of $2,191/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Mobile

Fairfield

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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