Raleigh, NC vs Mobile, AL: 110 vs 66

$1,468/mo ↑ 43%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 30%

$82,424/yr ↑ 61%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 38%

$377,800 ↑ 122%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 55%

$1,487/mo ↑ 46%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 32%

470,763

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $439/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $5,268/year.

Median household income is $31,334/year higher in Raleigh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Raleigh slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Mobile — common questions

Is Raleigh or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 110 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Mobile?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $439/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Mobile?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $31,334/year higher in Raleigh.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Alabama?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Raleigh or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/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: Raleigh, NC vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Raleigh

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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