Montgomery, AL vs Salem, OR: 64 vs 105

$1,059/mo ↓ 20%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↑ 25%

$55,687/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↑ 29%

$148,500 ↓ 61%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 158%

$1,023/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↑ 41%

198,440

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $264/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $3,168/year.

Median household income is $16,213/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Salem — common questions

Is Montgomery or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Salem?

Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $264/month.

Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Salem?

Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $16,213/year higher in Salem.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Oregon?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Montgomery or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Montgomery, AL vs Salem, OR (2026)

Montgomery

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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