Mobile, AL vs Meridian, ID: 66 vs 131

$1,029/mo ↓ 40%

Median Rent

$1,714/mo ↑ 67%

$51,090/yr ↓ 48%

Median Income

$98,686/yr ↑ 93%

$170,300 ↓ 65%

Home Value

$485,000 ↑ 185%

$1,016/mo ↓ 37%

Owner Costs

$1,607/mo ↑ 58%

185,097

Population

124,865

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Meridian, ID, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 131 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $685/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $8,220/year.

Median household income is $47,596/year higher in Meridian. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $485,000 in Meridian.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Meridian — common questions

Is Mobile or Meridian cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 131 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Meridian?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Meridian it's $1,714/month — a difference of $685/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Meridian?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $98,686 in Meridian. Median household income is $47,596/year higher in Meridian.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Idaho?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Idaho has 5.8% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.63% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Meridian?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Meridian has a cost index of 131 with rent of $1,714/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Meridian, ID (2026)

Mobile

Meridian

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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