Seattle, WA vs Montgomery, AL: 196 vs 64

$1,998/mo ↑ 89%

Median Rent

$1,059/mo ↓ 47%

$121,984/yr ↑ 119%

Median Income

$55,687/yr ↓ 54%

$912,100 ↑ 514%

Home Value

$148,500 ↓ 84%

$2,220/mo ↑ 117%

Owner Costs

$1,023/mo ↓ 54%

741,440

Population

198,440

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Montgomery, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 64 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $939/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $11,268/year.

Median household income is $66,297/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $148,500 in Montgomery.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over Alabama's 5.0% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Montgomery — common questions

Is Seattle or Montgomery cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 196 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Seattle and Montgomery?

Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Montgomery it's $1,059/month — a difference of $939/month.

Which city has higher income, Seattle or Montgomery?

Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $55,687 in Montgomery. Median household income is $66,297/year higher in Seattle.

How do taxes compare between Washington and Alabama?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Seattle or Montgomery?

It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/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: Seattle, WA vs Montgomery, AL (2026)

Seattle

Montgomery

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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