Montgomery, AL vs Surprise, AZ: 64 vs 126

$1,059/mo ↓ 45%

Median Rent

$1,917/mo ↑ 81%

$55,687/yr ↓ 40%

Median Income

$93,371/yr ↑ 68%

$148,500 ↓ 62%

Home Value

$396,000 ↑ 167%

$1,023/mo ↓ 36%

Owner Costs

$1,587/mo ↑ 55%

198,440

Population

149,519

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Surprise, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $858/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $10,296/year.

Median household income is $37,684/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $396,000 in Surprise.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Surprise slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Surprise — common questions

Is Montgomery or Surprise cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Surprise?

Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Surprise it's $1,917/month — a difference of $858/month.

Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Surprise?

Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $93,371 in Surprise. Median household income is $37,684/year higher in Surprise.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Arizona?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Montgomery or Surprise?

It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/mo, while Surprise has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Montgomery, AL vs Surprise, AZ (2026)

Montgomery

Surprise

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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