Moving from Austin to Mobile (2026)

Mobile has a COL index of 82 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). You'd pay about 33% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$736/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
12282
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,800$1,100
per month
State tax
None5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,428
per month

Salary needed in Mobile to match your Austin lifestyle

Based on the 33% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in AustinEquivalent in Mobile
$40K$26,885
$50K$33,607
$60K$40,328
$75K$50,410
$80K$53,770
$100K$67,213
$120K$80,656
$150K$100,820

Monthly budget at $75K — Austin vs Mobile

ExpenseAustinMobile
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,428
1BR rent$1,800$1,100
Groceries$372$353
Transport$50$38
Utilities$170$172
Internet$65$58
Left after essentials$2,284$2,707

Frequently asked questions

Is Mobile cheaper than Austin?

Yes. Mobile has a cost of living index of 82 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). That's about 33% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Austin to Mobile?

On a $75K salary, moving from Austin to Mobile could save roughly $736/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,832/year.

What salary do I need in Mobile to match my Austin lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Austin, you'd need roughly $50,410/year in Mobile. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only