Portland, OR vs Mobile, AL: 138 vs 66

$1,596/mo ↑ 55%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 36%

$88,792/yr ↑ 74%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 42%

$557,600 ↑ 227%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 69%

$1,771/mo ↑ 74%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 43%

642,715

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Portland, OR and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 138 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $567/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $6,804/year.

Median household income is $37,702/year higher in Portland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Portland is $557,600 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Portland vs Mobile — common questions

Is Portland or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 138 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Portland and Mobile?

Median rent in Portland is $1,596/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $567/month.

Which city has higher income, Portland or Mobile?

Median household income is $88,792 in Portland and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $37,702/year higher in Portland.

How do taxes compare between Oregon and Alabama?

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

Should I move to Portland or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Portland has a cost index of 138 with median rent of $1,596/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: Portland, OR vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Portland

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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