Tampa, FL vs Mobile, AL: 113 vs 66

$1,567/mo ↑ 52%

Median Rent

$1,029/mo ↓ 34%

$71,302/yr ↑ 40%

Median Income

$51,090/yr ↓ 28%

$375,300 ↑ 120%

Home Value

$170,300 ↓ 55%

$1,553/mo ↑ 53%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 35%

393,389

Population

185,097

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tampa, FL and Mobile, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 113 and 66 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $538/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $6,456/year.

Median household income is $20,212/year higher in Tampa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tampa is $375,300 compared to $170,300 in Mobile.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tampa vs Mobile — common questions

Is Tampa or Mobile cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 113 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tampa and Mobile?

Median rent in Tampa is $1,567/month and in Mobile it's $1,029/month — a difference of $538/month.

Which city has higher income, Tampa or Mobile?

Median household income is $71,302 in Tampa and $51,090 in Mobile. Median household income is $20,212/year higher in Tampa.

How do taxes compare between Florida and Alabama?

Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Tampa or Mobile?

It depends on your priorities. Tampa has a cost index of 113 with median rent of $1,567/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: Tampa, FL vs Mobile, AL (2026)

Tampa

Mobile

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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