Here is a comprehensive career guide for Marketing Managers considering Jackson, Mississippi.

---

Career Guide: Marketing Manager in Jackson, MS

As a career analyst who has watched Jackson’s professional landscape evolve over two decades, I’ve seen the city’s marketing sector mature from a few agency holdouts into a diverse ecosystem. For a Marketing Manager weighing a move here, the calculus is unique: you’re trading the frenetic pace and high costs of coastal hubs for a market where your dollar stretches further, but your professional network is smaller and more tight-knit.

This guide strips away the promotional fluff and gets into the data, the neighborhoods, and the real-world trade-offs. Whether you’re looking at a role with a regional healthcare system, a local agency like The Malatesta Group, or a corporate marketing team at a financial services firm, you need to know what Jackson actually offers.

The Salary Picture: Where Jackson Stands

Let’s start with the numbers that matter most. In Jackson, the median salary for a Marketing Manager is $153,222/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $73.66/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $157,620/year, but the gap is narrower than you might expect for a mid-sized Southern city.

The job market here is compact but stable. There are approximately 287 Marketing Manager positions in the Jackson metro area. The 10-year job growth projection is 8%, which is respectable for the region, indicating steady demand rather than explosive boomtown growth.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salary progression in Jackson follows a clear, experience-based trajectory. While the median sits at $153,222, your starting point and ceiling depend heavily on your background and the specific industry (e.g., healthcare marketing pays differently than retail).

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Jackson)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$75,000 - $95,000	Campaign execution, social media management, basic analytics, supporting senior staff.
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	$110,000 - $140,000	Managing campaigns end-to-end, team leadership, budget oversight, vendor relations.
Senior-Level (8-12 yrs)	$153,222 (Median) - $180,000	Department strategy, cross-functional leadership, high-level budgeting, brand stewardship.
Expert/Leadership (12+ yrs)	$185,000 - $220,000+	C-suite reporting, organizational strategy, business development, M&A marketing support.

Note: Salaries are estimates based on the provided median and localized data. Top-tier roles at major employers like Trustmark National Bank or Mississippi Baptist Health Systems can push the ceiling higher.

Comparison to Other Mississippi Cities

Jackson is the state’s capital and largest metro, so it commands a premium over smaller markets, but it’s not the most lucrative in the state.

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Job Market Notes
Jackson	$153,222	90.7	Largest, most diverse job pool. Highest rent.
Gulfport-Biloxi	$145,800	87.2	Tourism & hospitality focus. Lower salaries.
Hattiesburg	$138,500	83.5	College town (USM). Smaller, niche market.
Tupelo	$142,000	81.9	Manufacturing & logistics hub. Lower COL.

Insider Tip: While Tupelo has a lower cost of living, the marketing director roles there are fewer and often tied to manufacturing or retail giants like Ashley Furniture. Jackson offers broader industry variety, which can be better for long-term career pivots.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $153,222 salary sounds substantial, but after taxes and living expenses, the take-home pay is what matters. Mississippi has a progressive income tax, but it’s relatively low compared to many states.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for an Marketing Manager at Median Salary:

• Gross Monthly Salary: ~$12,768
• Est. Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~$3,400
• Net Monthly Take-Home: ~$9,368

Sample Monthly Budget:

• Housing (Rent for a 1BR): $997
• Utilities (Avg. for MS): $250
• Groceries: $450
• Transportation (Car Payment/Gas/Insurance): $700
• Health Insurance (Employer-Subsidized): $300
• Student Loans/Debt: $500
• Retirement Savings (10%): $1,277
• Discretionary Spending: $2,494

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, absolutely. The median home price in the Jackson metro is roughly $220,000. With a $153,222 income, a Marketing Manager can comfortably qualify for a mortgage. A 20% down payment ($44,000) is manageable on this salary, and monthly mortgage payments (including taxes and insurance) would likely be between $1,300 - $1,600, which is only slightly higher than the average rent for a nice 1BR or a small 2BR apartment. This is a significant advantage over larger metros where homeownership is often out of reach for all but the highest earners.

Where the Jobs Are: Jackson's Major Employers

Jackson’s job market is anchored by a few key sectors: healthcare, finance, government, and a growing number of regional corporate HQs. Marketing roles here are less about "growth hacking" at startups and more about brand management, community relations, and targeted B2B/B2C campaigns.

1. Mississippi Baptist Health Systems: One of the state’s largest healthcare providers. Marketing here focuses on patient acquisition, physician referral networks, and community health initiatives. They often hire for Manager and Director-level roles to manage their extensive media presence.
2. Trustmark National Bank: A major regional bank headquartered in Jackson. Their marketing team handles everything from digital banking campaigns to corporate branding and community sponsorship. This is a classic corporate marketing environment with clear career ladders.
3. C Spire: A diversified telecommunications and technology company. Their marketing is heavily focused on B2B sales support, product launches (like fiber internet), and regional sports sponsorships. A great spot for tech-savvy marketers.
4. State of Mississippi Agencies: The capital city hosts dozens of state agencies (e.g., Mississippi Development Authority, Department of Health). These roles often involve public information, grant marketing, and public health campaigns. The pay is stable, though sometimes below private sector median.
5. The Malatesta Group: A premier local marketing and PR agency. Working here means serving a diverse client roster, from restaurants to law firms. It’s a fast-paced environment that builds a broad skill set, often a stepping stone to corporate roles.
6. University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC): While physically in Jackson, it’s part of the state’s flagship health system. Marketing roles here are specialized in academic medicine, research promotion, and recruitment.
7. Nissan North America (Canton Plant): Just outside Jackson in Canton, this massive manufacturing plant employs marketing professionals for internal communications, plant tours, and community relations, though many corporate marketing functions are based in Tennessee.

Hiring Trends: Demand is steady for managers who can blend traditional marketing with digital analytics. Employers are increasingly looking for proficiency in marketing automation (HubSpot, Marketo) and data visualization tools. The market is not flooded with applicants, so a well-crafted cover letter referencing local knowledge (e.g., understanding the Jackson Public Schools landscape or local events like the Fondren After 5) can set you apart.

Getting Licensed in MS

For Marketing Managers, there is no state-specific license required to practice in Mississippi. The field is largely credential-based on experience and education.

However, professional certifications are highly valued and can impact your salary negotiation. The most recognized are:

• Professional Certified Marketer (PCM): Offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA). Cost: ~$500 for non-members, plus study materials. Timeline: 3-6 months of study.
• Google Analytics Individual Qualification (GAIQ): Free, but requires passing an exam. A must-have for digital-focused roles.
• HubSpot Inbound Marketing Certification: Free and highly regarded by agencies and corporate teams using the HubSpot platform.

Insider Tip: While not a license, joining the Mississippi Chapter of the AMA is arguably more valuable. The networking events in Jackson provide direct access to hiring managers at top employers. Membership is around $150/year.

Best Neighborhoods for Marketing Managers

Where you live in Jackson dramatically impacts your commute and lifestyle. The city is spread out, and traffic, while not Atlanta-level, can be tedious on I-55 and I-20.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Average 1BR Rent
Fondren	The creative hub. Walkable, filled with coffee shops, boutiques, and the Mississippi Museum of Art. 10-15 minutes to downtown. Ideal for those who want a "scene."	$1,100 - $1,300
Ridgeland (North Jackson)	Corporate corridor. Home to many corporate offices (C Spire, etc.), shopping at Renaissance at Flowood. Upscale, family-friendly. 15-20 minute commute to downtown.	$1,050 - $1,250
Belhaven	Historic & academic. Adjacent to Belhaven University, quiet streets, beautiful old homes. Close to downtown and the medical district. 5-15 minute commute.	$950 - $1,150
Flowood	Suburban convenience. Near the airport and major shopping (Pearl River Mall). Newer apartment complexes. 20-25 minute commute to downtown.	$900 - $1,100
Downtown Jackson	Urban revival. Lofts and apartments in restored buildings. Walkable to state government offices and some corporate HQs. Gentrifying but still has pockets of vacancy.	$950 - $1,200

Personal Insight: If you’re a marketing professional who thrives on networking and creative energy, Fondren is worth the slightly higher rent. If you prioritize a quiet, reliable commute to a corporate office in Ridgeland, look there. Belhaven offers a great balance of charm and accessibility.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Jackson, career advancement for Marketing Managers is often less about rapid vertical jumps and more about strategic lateral moves and specialty development.

• Specialty Premiums: Salaries can exceed the $153,222 median if you develop niche expertise:

  • Healthcare Marketing: +10-15% premium, due to regulatory complexity.
  • B2B/Industrial Marketing: +5-10% premium, especially with companies like C Spire or Nissan suppliers.
  • Digital Analytics/Performance Marketing: +5-8% premium, as this skill set is in high demand but not fully saturated.

• Advancement Paths: The typical path is:

  1. Marketing Specialist/Coordinator at an agency or small firm.
  2. Marketing Manager at a mid-sized company or a larger agency.
  3. Senior Marketing Manager/Director at a major employer (Trustmark, Baptist).
  4. VP of Marketing (rare in Jackson, often requires relocating to a larger HQ or working for a remote-first company).

• 10-Year Outlook: The 8% job growth indicates a stable, not explosive, market. The key to long-term success in Jackson is building a deep local network. Your next job will likely come from a referral, not a blind application. The rise of remote work is a double-edged sword: it allows you to work for a coastal company while living in Jackson, but it can also dilute the local professional network. The most successful long-term marketers in Jackson are often those who are deeply involved in the community—serving on nonprofit boards, attending local business events, and becoming a known entity.

The Verdict: Is Jackson Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Cost of Living Advantage: Your $153,222 salary goes much further than in major metros. Homeownership is realistic.	Smaller, Insular Network: The professional community is tight. Gossip travels fast, and reputations are long-lasting.
Manageable Pace: Less competition, less traffic, and a more balanced lifestyle.	Limited Industry Variety: Fewer tech, entertainment, or cutting-edge startup marketing roles compared to Austin or Nashville.
Stable Job Market: Anchored by government, healthcare, and finance, which are relatively recession-resistant.	Slower Salary Growth: The salary ceiling is lower; you may hit a plateau unless you move into senior leadership or remote work.
High Quality of Life for the Cost: Great food, rich music history, and a genuine sense of community.	Brain Drain: Some ambitious young professionals leave for larger cities, which can thin the talent pool.

Final Recommendation:
Jackson is an excellent choice for a Marketing Manager who values quality of life, affordability, and stability over the rapid career ascent and high-octane competition of a coastal city. It’s ideal for mid-career professionals looking to buy a home, start a family, or build a deep community presence. It may be less suitable for those whose primary goal is to climb the corporate ladder at a Fortune 500 HQ or work in a hyper-competitive, trend-driven industry. If you can leverage remote work opportunities while building a local network, Jackson offers a compelling and financially savvy base.

FAQs

1. Is the job market for Marketing Managers in Jackson competitive?
It’s moderately competitive. With only 287 jobs in the metro, openings don’t appear daily. However, the applicant pool is also smaller than in major cities. Tailoring your resume to the specific industry (e.g., highlighting healthcare compliance knowledge for a Baptist Health role) is crucial.

2. What’s the commute like in Jackson?
It’s generally manageable. Without major traffic, a cross-town commute (e.g., Fondren to Ridgeland) is 15-20 minutes. However, if you live in a suburb like Madison and work downtown, your commute can stretch to 30-45 minutes during peak hours. Always check your potential commute before signing a lease.

3. How important is a local network in Jackson?
It’s everything. In a market this size, hiring managers often rely on referrals from trusted colleagues. Joining local groups like the AMA, the Greater Jackson Chamber, or even industry-specific meetups (like the local Social Media Club chapter) is not optional—it’s a core part of your job search strategy.

4. Can I expect a signing bonus or relocation package?
It depends on the employer. Large employers like Trustmark or Baptist Health Systems may offer relocation assistance for senior roles. Smaller companies and agencies are less likely to offer significant packages. Always negotiate, but have realistic expectations.

5. What’s the work-life balance like?
Generally better than the national average. While deadlines exist, the culture in Jackson is less about "hustle" and more about steady, reliable performance. Many employers respect family time, and the city’s numerous parks and outdoor activities (think the Natchez Trace Parkway) make it easy to disconnect after hours.