Cost of Living in Mobile County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mobile County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mobile County ranks #2,964 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 6%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mobile County, Alabama
Mobile's housing costs strain local budgets
Mobile County renters spend 21.1% of their income on rent, outpacing the national average of roughly 18%. With a median household income of $58,119—well below the national median of $74,755—housing affordability here is tighter than typical American markets.
Above-average costs for Alabama
Mobile's rent-to-income ratio of 21.1% exceeds Alabama's state average of 18.0%, placing it among the state's less affordable counties. At $1,021 monthly rent versus the state average of $799, Mobile renters pay roughly $222 more each month.
Costlier than rural Alabama peers
Mobile's $1,021 median rent significantly exceeds neighboring rural counties like Perry ($610) and Pickens ($600). Even compared to state capital Montgomery, Mobile renters pay slightly less ($1,061 in Montgomery), reflecting Mobile's status as the region's urban anchor.
Rent dominates Mobile household budgets
Renters dedicate 21.1% of income to monthly rent, while homeowners pay $991 monthly toward mortgages on properties valued at $176,600. Together, these figures reveal that housing—whether rented or owned—competes heavily with other necessities for Mobile households.
Consider Mobile's trade-offs carefully
Mobile offers urban amenities and employment diversity, but renters should budget carefully: you'll spend roughly $12,250 annually on rent alone. If affordability is your priority, lower-cost rural Alabama counties or neighborhoods outside the city center merit comparison.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mobile County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Mobile County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,021/month in gross rent, with 32.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Mobile County pay $1,021/month on average, compared to $991/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 3%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $40,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $42,471/year. With a median household income of $58,119, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 32.0% of renter households in Mobile County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Mobile County sits 5% more expensive than Coffee County ($970/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mobile County
Rent Burden
21.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,356
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.5%
of gross income
The median home in Mobile County may be a stretch
Median home value is $176,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,410 vs. your max of $1,356.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Mobile County, Alabama?
What is the median rent in Mobile County?
Is Mobile County affordable?
How does Mobile County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Mobile County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Mobile County, Alabama? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Mobile County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.