Jackson: The Data Profile (2026)

Jackson, Mississippi, represents a distinct value proposition in the post-2026 relocation landscape. With a population of 143,633, it functions as a small-to-mid-sized metro hub. The primary economic friction point is the significant delta between local earning potential and national averages. The median household income sits at $42,336, which is -43.2% lower than the US median of $74,580. However, this is partially offset by a highly competitive cost of living index, specifically in housing, which sits at 72.0 (-28.0% vs US average).

The statistical target demographic for Jackson is the "Remote Arbitrageur." With a college-educated workforce rate of 29.0% (below the US average of 33.1%), the local economy is less saturated with high-degree competition. The ideal candidate is a remote worker earning a national-level salary who can leverage Jackson's -28.0% housing discount to maximize disposable income, rather than a local hire dependent on the $42,336 median wage.

Cost of Living Analysis

The cost of living structure in Jackson is heavily weighted in the mover's favor, though specific sectors like electricity (13.39 cents/kWh) and healthcare (91.0 Index) remain closer to national parity. The aggregate index allows for significant savings, provided income is derived from outside the region.

Table 1: Monthly Budgets (Estimated)

Disposable Income Analysis:
For a single remote worker earning the US median of $74,580 ($6,215/mo pre-tax), the Jackson cost structure offers a distinct advantage. After federal/state taxes and the $2,137 monthly budget, the disposable income remaining is approximately $2,000+ monthly. Conversely, a local earner on the $42,336 median ($3,528/mo) faces a budget of $2,137, leaving only ~$500 for discretionary spending, savings, or debt service.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is the primary driver of Jackson's affordability. The median home price is significantly depressed relative to the national curve, creating a high barrier-to-entry for locals but a lucrative opportunity for incoming capital. Renters see immediate relief, with 1-bedroom units averaging $957.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting)

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
Given the -57.9% discount on median home prices, buying is mathematically advantageous for anyone planning a stay longer than 18 months. The monthly mortgage payment on a $175,000 home (assuming 20% down and 6.5% interest) is roughly $1,100, which is comparable to renting a 2-bedroom unit. However, the equity capture rate is significantly higher due to the low entry price point.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

Post-2026, Jackson's economy is stabilizing but remains sensitive. The 3.8% unemployment rate is technically better than the US average of 4.0%, but this masks the low-wage structure. The Return-to-Office (RTO) mandate impact is moderate; while state government and healthcare sectors drive local demand, the lack of major corporate HQs means high-paying hybrid roles are scarce.

Commute & Industry:
Average commute times remain low at 21 minutes, significantly better than the national average of 27 minutes. This reduction in transit time adds approximately 60 hours of free time annually compared to larger metros. The primary industries are Government, Healthcare, and Education (Jackson State University, Tougaloo College), offering stability but limited high-income upside.

Quality of Life Audit

Jackson presents a complex Quality of Life profile. While air quality is excellent and crime is manageable, significant public health challenges exist.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety & Environment:
Violent crime is a statistical bright spot, recorded at 291/100k (US avg: 380/100k), making it safer than many comparable cities. Property crime is average at 2,234/100k. The air quality is superb, with an AQI of 42 and PM2.5 levels at 7.1 µg/m³, well below hazardous thresholds.

Schools & Weather:
School performance in the Jackson Public School District is below state averages, a critical factor for families. Weather is currently 70.0°F with active showers, typical of the humid subtropical climate. Summers are long and hot, which impacts utility costs.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Housing Value: Median home price of $175,000 is a -57.9% discount vs national average.
• Air Quality: AQI of 42 is significantly cleaner than the US average.
• Commute: Average commute of 21 minutes saves significant time.
• Crime: Violent crime is -23.4% lower than the national average.

Cons:

• Income Ceiling: Median income of $42,336 is -43.2% below the US average.
• Public Health: Obesity (46.0%) and Diabetes (18.4%) rates are critically high.
• Education: College attainment (29.0%) and K-12 ratings lag.

Final Recommendation:
Jackson is a high-yield relocation spot for remote workers earning $75,000+ annually. The math supports moving here to leverage the -28.0% cost of living index against a national salary. It is not recommended for local job seekers or those requiring high-tier public schools without private supplementation.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Jackson?
For a single person, a salary of $55,000 is sufficient for comfort, but $75,000 allows for aggressive savings and home ownership. For a family, $90,000+ is recommended to offset healthcare and quality-of-life costs.

2. How does the value compare to other Southern cities?
Jackson offers deeper housing discounts (-57.9%) than Nashville or Atlanta. While wages are lower, the spread between income and rent is wider here, maximizing disposable income for remote earners.

3. Are the safety statistics reliable?
Yes. Violent crime at 291/100k is statistically lower than the national average of 380/100k. However, property crime is average, so home security systems are a standard recommendation.

4. Is now the right time to buy a home?
With a Housing Index of 72.0 and median prices at $175,000, the market is undervalued relative to national trends. For buyers with capital, the entry point is low, offering high equity potential if the local economy attracts further investment.