Montgomery, AL vs Elizabeth, NJ: 64 vs 112

$1,059/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$1,463/mo ↑ 38%

$55,687/yr ↓ 13%

Median Income

$63,874/yr ↑ 15%

$148,500 ↓ 62%

Home Value

$393,500 ↑ 165%

$1,023/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$1,543/mo ↑ 51%

198,440

Population

135,887

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Elizabeth, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $404/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $4,848/year.

Median household income is $8,187/year higher in Elizabeth. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $393,500 in Elizabeth.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Elizabeth — common questions

Is Montgomery or Elizabeth cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 112 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Elizabeth?

Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Elizabeth it's $1,463/month — a difference of $404/month.

Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Elizabeth?

Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $63,874 in Elizabeth. Median household income is $8,187/year higher in Elizabeth.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and New Jersey?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.

Should I move to Montgomery or Elizabeth?

It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/mo, while Elizabeth has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,463/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Montgomery, AL vs Elizabeth, NJ (2026)

Montgomery

Elizabeth

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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