San Jose, CA vs Montgomery, AL: 254 vs 64

$2,617/mo ↑ 147%

Median Rent

$1,059/mo ↓ 60%

$141,565/yr ↑ 154%

Median Income

$55,687/yr ↓ 61%

$1,187,800 ↑ 700%

Home Value

$148,500 ↓ 87%

$2,775/mo ↑ 171%

Owner Costs

$1,023/mo ↓ 63%

990,054

Population

198,440

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Jose, CA and Montgomery, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 254 and 64 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,558/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $18,696/year.

Median household income is $85,878/year higher in San Jose. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Jose is $1,187,800 compared to $148,500 in Montgomery.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Jose vs Montgomery — common questions

Is San Jose or Montgomery cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 254 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Jose and Montgomery?

Median rent in San Jose is $2,617/month and in Montgomery it's $1,059/month — a difference of $1,558/month.

Which city has higher income, San Jose or Montgomery?

Median household income is $141,565 in San Jose and $55,687 in Montgomery. Median household income is $85,878/year higher in San Jose.

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 San Jose or Montgomery?

It depends on your priorities. San Jose has a cost index of 254 with median rent of $2,617/mo, while Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with rent of $1,059/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: San Jose, CA vs Montgomery, AL (2026)

San Jose

Montgomery

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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