Modesto, CA vs Mobile, AL: 120 vs 66

$1,609/mo ↑ 56%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 36%

$77,899/yr ↑ 52%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 34%

$415,600 ↑ 144%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 59%

$1,613/mo ↑ 59%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 37%

218,614

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Modesto, CA and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $580/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $6,960/year.

Median household income is $26,809/year higher in Modesto. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Modesto is $415,600 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Modesto vs Mobile — common questions

Is Modesto or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Modesto and Mobile?

Median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $580/month.

Which city has higher income, Modesto or Mobile?

Median household income is $77,899 in Modesto and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $26,809/year higher in Modesto.

How do taxes compare between California and Alabama?

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

Should I move to Modesto or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Modesto has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,609/mo, while Mobile has a cost index of 66 with rent of $1,029/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Modesto

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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