Montgomery, AL vs Fairfield, CA: 64 vs 167

$1,059/mo ↓ 52%

Median Rent

$2,191/mo ↑ 107%

$55,687/yr ↓ 46%

Median Income

$102,321/yr ↑ 84%

$148,500 ↓ 75%

Home Value

$592,500 ↑ 299%

$1,023/mo ↓ 54%

Owner Costs

$2,226/mo ↑ 118%

198,440

Population

119,985

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Fairfield, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 167 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,132/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $13,584/year.

Median household income is $46,634/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $592,500 in Fairfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Fairfield — common questions

Is Montgomery or Fairfield cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 167 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Fairfield?

Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Fairfield it's $2,191/month — a difference of $1,132/month.

Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Fairfield?

Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $102,321 in Fairfield. Median household income is $46,634/year higher in Fairfield.

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 Fairfield?

It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/mo, while Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with rent of $2,191/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Montgomery

Fairfield

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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