Mobile, AL vs Wilmington, NC: 66 vs 100

$1,029/mo ↓ 22%

Median Rent

$1,311/mo ↑ 27%

$51,090/yr ↓ 20%

Median Income

$63,900/yr ↑ 25%

$170,300 ↓ 51%

Home Value

$350,300 ↑ 106%

$1,016/mo ↓ 26%

Owner Costs

$1,371/mo ↑ 35%

185,097

Population

118,578

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Wilmington, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $282/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $3,384/year.

Median household income is $12,810/year higher in Wilmington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $350,300 in Wilmington.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Wilmington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Wilmington — common questions

Is Mobile or Wilmington cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Wilmington?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Wilmington it's $1,311/month — a difference of $282/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Wilmington?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $63,900 in Wilmington. Median household income is $12,810/year higher in Wilmington.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and North Carolina?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Wilmington?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/mo, while Wilmington has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,311/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mobile, AL vs Wilmington, NC (2026)

Mobile

Wilmington

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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