Mobile, AL vs Pasadena, CA: 66 vs 220

$1,029/mo ↓ 54%

Median Rent

$2,218/mo ↑ 116%

$51,090/yr ↓ 51%

Median Income

$103,778/yr ↑ 103%

$170,300 ↓ 84%

Home Value

$1,045,000 ↑ 514%

$1,016/mo ↓ 57%

Owner Costs

$2,340/mo ↑ 130%

185,097

Population

136,462

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Pasadena, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 220 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,189/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $14,268/year.

Median household income is $52,688/year higher in Pasadena. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $1,045,000 in Pasadena.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Pasadena — common questions

Is Mobile or Pasadena cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 220 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Pasadena?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Pasadena it's $2,218/month — a difference of $1,189/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Pasadena?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $103,778 in Pasadena. Median household income is $52,688/year higher in Pasadena.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and California?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Pasadena?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Pasadena has a cost index of 220 with rent of $2,218/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Pasadena, CA (2026)

Mobile

Pasadena

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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