New Orleans, LA vs Mobile, AL: 90 vs 66

$1,211/mo ↑ 18%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 15%

$55,339/yr ↑ 8%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 8%

$296,400 ↑ 74%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 43%

$1,274/mo ↑ 25%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 20%

376,035

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing New Orleans, LA and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $182/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $2,184/year.

Median household income is $4,249/year higher in New Orleans. Home values also differ significantly — the median in New Orleans is $296,400 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

Louisiana has a lower income tax rate, making New Orleans slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

New Orleans vs Mobile — common questions

Is New Orleans or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 90 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between New Orleans and Mobile?

Median rent in New Orleans is $1,211/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $182/month.

Which city has higher income, New Orleans or Mobile?

Median household income is $55,339 in New Orleans and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $4,249/year higher in New Orleans.

How do taxes compare between Louisiana and Alabama?

Louisiana has 4.25% income tax, 4.45% sales tax, and 0.55% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to New Orleans or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. New Orleans has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,211/mo, while Mobile has a cost index of 66 with rent of $1,029/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: New Orleans, LA vs Mobile, AL (2026)

New Orleans

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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