St. Paul, MN vs Mobile, AL: 91 vs 66

$1,248/mo ↑ 21%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 18%

$73,055/yr ↑ 43%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 30%

$280,300 ↑ 65%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 39%

$1,390/mo ↑ 37%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 27%

307,762

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing St. Paul, MN and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 91 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $219/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $2,628/year.

Median household income is $21,965/year higher in St. Paul. Home values also differ significantly — the median in St. Paul is $280,300 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

St. Paul vs Mobile — common questions

Is St. Paul or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 91 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between St. Paul and Mobile?

Median rent in St. Paul is $1,248/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $219/month.

Which city has higher income, St. Paul or Mobile?

Median household income is $73,055 in St. Paul and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $21,965/year higher in St. Paul.

How do taxes compare between Minnesota and Alabama?

Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to St. Paul or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. St. Paul has a cost index of 91 with median rent of $1,248/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: St. Paul, MN vs Mobile, AL (2026)

St. Paul

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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