Mobile, AL vs Surprise, AZ: 66 vs 126

$1,029/mo ↓ 46%

Median Rent

$1,917/mo ↑ 86%

$51,090/yr ↓ 45%

Median Income

$93,371/yr ↑ 83%

$170,300 ↓ 57%

Home Value

$396,000 ↑ 133%

$1,016/mo ↓ 36%

Owner Costs

$1,587/mo ↑ 56%

185,097

Population

149,519

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Surprise, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $888/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $10,656/year.

Median household income is $42,281/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $396,000 in Surprise.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Surprise slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Surprise — common questions

Is Mobile or Surprise cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Surprise?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Surprise it's $1,917/month — a difference of $888/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Surprise?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $93,371 in Surprise. Median household income is $42,281/year higher in Surprise.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Arizona?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Surprise?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Surprise has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Surprise, AZ (2026)

Mobile

Surprise

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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