Mobile, AL vs Metairie, LA: 66 vs 88

$1,029/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,159/mo ↑ 13%

$51,090/yr ↓ 30%

Median Income

$73,256/yr ↑ 43%

$170,300 ↓ 45%

Home Value

$308,900 ↑ 81%

$1,016/mo ↓ 14%

Owner Costs

$1,186/mo ↑ 17%

185,097

Population

138,995

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Metairie, LA, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $130/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $1,560/year.

Median household income is $22,166/year higher in Metairie. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $308,900 in Metairie.

Louisiana has a lower income tax rate, making Metairie slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Metairie — common questions

Is Mobile or Metairie 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 Metairie?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Metairie it's $1,159/month — a difference of $130/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Metairie?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $73,256 in Metairie. Median household income is $22,166/year higher in Metairie.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Louisiana?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Louisiana has 4.25% income tax, 4.45% sales tax, and 0.55% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Metairie?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Metairie has a cost index of 88 with rent of $1,159/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Metairie, LA (2026)

Mobile

Metairie

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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