Oakland, CA vs Mobile, AL: 195 vs 66

$1,917/mo ↑ 86%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 46%

$97,369/yr ↑ 91%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 48%

$924,700 ↑ 443%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 82%

$2,164/mo ↑ 113%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 53%

438,072

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Oakland, CA and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 195 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $888/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $10,656/year.

Median household income is $46,279/year higher in Oakland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Oakland is $924,700 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Oakland vs Mobile — common questions

Is Oakland or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 195 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Oakland and Mobile?

Median rent in Oakland is $1,917/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $888/month.

Which city has higher income, Oakland or Mobile?

Median household income is $97,369 in Oakland and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $46,279/year higher in Oakland.

How do taxes compare between California and Alabama?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Oakland or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Oakland has a cost index of 195 with median rent of $1,917/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: Oakland, CA vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Oakland

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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