Montgomery, AL vs Alexandria, VA: 64 vs 173

$1,059/mo ↓ 48%

Median Rent

$2,031/mo ↑ 92%

$55,687/yr ↓ 51%

Median Income

$113,638/yr ↑ 104%

$148,500 ↓ 79%

Home Value

$696,800 ↑ 369%

$1,023/mo ↓ 53%

Owner Costs

$2,173/mo ↑ 112%

198,440

Population

156,788

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Alexandria, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 173 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $972/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $11,664/year.

Median household income is $57,951/year higher in Alexandria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $696,800 in Alexandria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Alexandria — common questions

Is Montgomery or Alexandria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 173 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Alexandria?

Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Alexandria it's $2,031/month — a difference of $972/month.

Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Alexandria?

Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $113,638 in Alexandria. Median household income is $57,951/year higher in Alexandria.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Virginia?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Montgomery or Alexandria?

It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/mo, while Alexandria has a cost index of 173 with rent of $2,031/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Montgomery, AL vs Alexandria, VA (2026)

Montgomery

Alexandria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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