Montgomery, AL vs Pasadena, CA: 64 vs 220

$1,059/mo ↓ 52%

Median Rent

$2,218/mo ↑ 109%

$55,687/yr ↓ 46%

Median Income

$103,778/yr ↑ 86%

$148,500 ↓ 86%

Home Value

$1,045,000 ↑ 604%

$1,023/mo ↓ 56%

Owner Costs

$2,340/mo ↑ 129%

198,440

Population

136,462

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Pasadena, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 220 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,159/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $13,908/year.

Median household income is $48,091/year higher in Pasadena. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $1,045,000 in Pasadena.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Pasadena — common questions

Is Montgomery or Pasadena cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 220 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Pasadena?

Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Pasadena it's $2,218/month — a difference of $1,159/month.

Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Pasadena?

Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $103,778 in Pasadena. Median household income is $48,091/year higher in Pasadena.

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 Pasadena?

It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/mo, while Pasadena has a cost index of 220 with rent of $2,218/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Montgomery

Pasadena

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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