Mobile, AL vs Joliet, IL: 66 vs 88

$1,029/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$1,237/mo ↑ 20%

$51,090/yr ↓ 42%

Median Income

$88,026/yr ↑ 72%

$170,300 ↓ 31%

Home Value

$248,600 ↑ 46%

$1,016/mo ↓ 31%

Owner Costs

$1,472/mo ↑ 45%

185,097

Population

149,785

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Joliet, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $208/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $2,496/year.

Median household income is $36,936/year higher in Joliet. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $248,600 in Joliet.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Joliet — common questions

Is Mobile or Joliet cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Joliet?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Joliet it's $1,237/month — a difference of $208/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Joliet?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $88,026 in Joliet. Median household income is $36,936/year higher in Joliet.

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 Joliet?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Joliet has a cost index of 88 with rent of $1,237/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Mobile

Joliet

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons