Philadelphia, PA vs Mobile, AL: 85 vs 66

$1,323/mo ↑ 29%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 22%

$60,698/yr ↑ 19%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 16%

$232,400 ↑ 36%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 27%

$1,233/mo ↑ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 18%

1,582,432

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $294/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $3,528/year.

Median household income is $9,608/year higher in Philadelphia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Mobile — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 85 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Mobile?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $294/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Mobile?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $9,608/year higher in Philadelphia.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Alabama?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/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: Philadelphia, PA vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Philadelphia

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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