Mobile, AL vs Lowell, MA: 66 vs 119

$1,029/mo ↓ 36%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 56%

$51,090/yr ↓ 33%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 49%

$170,300 ↓ 57%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 132%

$1,016/mo ↓ 39%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 65%

185,097

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $574/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $6,888/year.

Median household income is $25,115/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Lowell — common questions

Is Mobile or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Lowell?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $574/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Lowell?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $25,115/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Massachusetts?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Mobile

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons