Mobile, AL vs Salem, OR: 66 vs 105

$1,029/mo ↓ 22%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↑ 29%

$51,090/yr ↓ 29%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↑ 41%

$170,300 ↓ 55%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 125%

$1,016/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↑ 42%

185,097

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $294/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $3,528/year.

Median household income is $20,810/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Salem — common questions

Is Mobile or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Salem?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $294/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Salem?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $20,810/year higher in Salem.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Oregon?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Salem, OR (2026)

Mobile

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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