Tacoma, WA vs Mobile, AL: 126 vs 66

$1,597/mo ↑ 55%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 36%

$83,857/yr ↑ 64%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 39%

$454,600 ↑ 167%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 63%

$1,747/mo ↑ 72%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 42%

220,482

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tacoma, WA and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 126 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $568/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $6,816/year.

Median household income is $32,767/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tacoma is $454,600 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tacoma vs Mobile — common questions

Is Tacoma or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tacoma and Mobile?

Median rent in Tacoma is $1,597/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $568/month.

Which city has higher income, Tacoma or Mobile?

Median household income is $83,857 in Tacoma and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $32,767/year higher in Tacoma.

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 Tacoma or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with median rent of $1,597/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: Tacoma, WA vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Tacoma

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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