Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Newport News, VA 2026

$1,029/mo ↓ 20%

Median Rent

$1,285/mo ↑ 25%

$51,090/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$66,718/yr ↑ 31%

$170,300 ↓ 30%

Home Value

$243,300 ↑ 43%

$1,016/mo ↓ 23%

Owner Costs

$1,328/mo ↑ 31%

185,097

Population

184,774

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Newport News, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 87 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $256/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $3,072/year.

Median household income is $15,628/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $243,300 in Newport News.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Newport News — common questions

Is Mobile or Newport News cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 87 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Newport News?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Newport News it's $1,285/month — a difference of $256/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Newport News?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $66,718 in Newport News. Median household income is $15,628/year higher in Newport News.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Virginia?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Newport News?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Newport News has a cost index of 87 with rent of $1,285/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Newport News, VA (2026)

Mobile

Newport News

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions