Montgomery, AL vs Downey, CA: 64 vs 169

$1,059/mo ↓ 44%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 79%

$55,687/yr ↓ 36%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 57%

$148,500 ↓ 80%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 391%

$1,023/mo ↓ 49%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 95%

198,440

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $833/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $9,996/year.

Median household income is $31,713/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Downey — common questions

Is Montgomery or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Downey?

Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $833/month.

Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Downey?

Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $31,713/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and California?

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

Should I move to Montgomery or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Montgomery, AL vs Downey, CA (2026)

Montgomery

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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