📖 Guide to Living in Mississippi
Mississippi: State Relocation Guide 2026
Mississippi: State Relocation Overview 2026
Welcome to the definitive 2026 relocation guide for the Magnolia State. If you are looking for Southern hospitality combined with some of the most affordable living costs in the nation, Mississippi presents a compelling case. The state's primary competitive advantage is its purchasing power: with a state-wide Cost of Living Index of 87.3, residents enjoy a 12.7% discount on everyday expenses compared to the national average of 100. This economic breathing room is consistent across the state, with the single city analyzed in this report showing a median income of $42,336 against a highly affordable housing market.
Current state-level advantages make moving to Mississippi an attractive proposition in 2026. The tax structure is favorable, featuring a progressive income tax that caps out low, meaning you keep more of your paycheck. Regulations are generally business-friendly, encouraging local economic growth. Furthermore, the climate offers a distinct four seasons without the harsh winters found in the Northeast or Midwest, though the summers are hot and humid.
If you're considering moving to Mississippi in 2026, you are likely seeking a balance between a lower cost of living and a slower pace of life. This guide focuses on Jackson as the primary case study, providing a granular look at what life looks like in the state's capital and largest municipality. Whether you are a remote worker, a family, or a retiree, the data suggests that Mississippi offers significant financial relief, provided you select the right location for your lifestyle needs.
City-by-City Cost of Living Comparison
When analyzing best cities in Mississippi, the data highlights Jackson as the state's economic and population hub. It serves as the central point for employment, culture, and housing. However, the metrics reveal a unique market dynamic: while the general Cost of Living is low (87.3), the housing index is reported at 100.0, which aligns with the national average. This suggests that while food, utilities, and transportation are affordable in Mississippi, housing costs in the capital city are competitive with the broader US market.
The "value play" in this specific dataset is clearly Jackson. With a median income of $42,336 and a 2-bedroom rent averaging $1,077/month, the rent-to-income ratio is manageable. For renters, this is a significant draw. The premium aspect of the market is defined by the lack of home price data (ranging from $0 - $0), indicating a market heavily skewed toward rental inventory or a gap in valuation data for this specific metric. For the relocating professional, Jackson offers the highest density of jobs and amenities, justifying the housing index parity with the national average.
Table 1: City Comparison Metrics
| City | Population | Median Income | COL Index | Housing Index | Rent 2BR | Violent Crime (per 100k) | Health Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jackson | 143,633 | $42,336 | 90.7 | 67.1 | $1,159 | 291.2 | 73.5 |
| Gulfport | 72,824 | $47,564 | 89.3 | 61.0 | $1,151 | 291.2 | 74.7 |
| Southaven | 55,531 | $76,159 | 92.4 | 77.5 | $981 | 291.2 | 78.9 |
| Biloxi | 49,011 | $55,958 | 89.3 | 100.0 | $1,151 | 291.2 | 77.9 |
| Hattiesburg | 48,507 | $44,140 | 89.3 | 100.0 | $1,101 | 291.2 | 76.7 |
| Olive Branch | 46,538 | $98,421 | 92.4 | 77.5 | $981 | 291.2 | 80.2 |
| Tupelo | 37,825 | $66,314 | 84.0 | 96.6 | $892 | 291.2 | 78.5 |
| Meridian | 34,466 | $34,657 | 84.0 | 96.6 | $892 | 291.2 | 71.4 |
| Greenville | 28,833 | $36,297 | 84.0 | 96.6 | $892 | 291.2 | 70.9 |
| Madison | 27,775 | $120,918 | 90.7 | 67.1 | $1,159 | 291.2 | 83.9 |
Cost of Living Rankings
To understand the financial landscape of Mississippi, we rank the cities based on their overall Cost of Living Index. In this dataset, Jackson stands alone as the primary metric for comparison, but it sets the benchmark for the state. An index of 87.3 means that a basket of goods and services costing $100 in the average US city would cost only $87.30 in Jackson.
This ranking is crucial for budget-conscious relocators. While Jackson is the only city listed, it represents the "Floor" for state capital living costs in many regards. It is significantly cheaper than living in coastal hubs or major Midwestern cities. For those looking at cost of living Mississippi comparisons, Jackson represents the baseline for urban affordability. It is neither the most expensive (as there are smaller, pricier enclaves in the state) nor the absolute cheapest (rural areas are lower), but it offers the best data-backed snapshot of urban affordability.
Table 2: Cost of Living Rankings (Cheapest to Most Expensive)
| Rank | City | Overall COL | Housing | Groceries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tupelo | 84.0 | 96.6 | 82.3 |
| 2 | Meridian | 84.0 | 96.6 | 82.3 |
| 3 | Greenville | 84.0 | 96.6 | 82.3 |
| 4 | Gulfport | 89.3 | 61.0 | 94.9 |
| 5 | Biloxi | 89.3 | 100.0 | 94.9 |
| 6 | Hattiesburg | 89.3 | 100.0 | 94.9 |
| 7 | Jackson | 90.7 | 67.1 | 94.9 |
| 8 | Madison | 90.7 | 67.1 | 94.9 |
| 9 | Southaven | 92.4 | 77.5 | 94.8 |
| 10 | Olive Branch | 92.4 | 77.5 | 94.8 |
Best Cities by Profile (2026)
Choosing where to live in Mississippi depends entirely on your life stage. While Jackson is the data anchor, the city's characteristics align with specific profiles. Jackson offers a unique mix of urban infrastructure and Southern affordability.
For Families with Kids: Jackson offers space and affordability. With a median income of $42,336 and rent at $1,077, families can allocate more of their budget to education and extracurriculars. The Health Score of 73.5 suggests decent access to medical care, which is a priority for parents.
For Young Professionals: Jackson is the hub. The concentration of $42,336 median income jobs in the state capital provides the highest earning potential in the state. While specific nightlife data isn't provided, as the largest city with 143,633 people, it naturally hosts the state's highest concentration of cultural venues and restaurants.
For Remote Workers: The cost of living Mississippi advantage shines here. A remote worker earning a national average salary can live in Jackson and save significantly. With a COL index of 87.3, your dollar stretches further, allowing for a higher quality of life (larger home, better amenities) than in a high-cost metro.
For Retirees: Affordability is the key metric. Jackson's low cost of living (87.3) preserves retirement savings. The Health Score of 73.5 indicates a functioning healthcare infrastructure, which is vital for this demographic.
For Budget-Conscious: Jackson is the clear winner in this dataset. The combination of a low COL index (87.3) and relatively low rent ($1,077) makes it the premier location for minimizing expenses while retaining access to urban amenities.
Table 3: Best Cities by Profile
| Profile | Best City | Key Metric | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Families with Kids | Jackson | Rent: $1,077 | Affordable housing allows for larger living spaces and budget allocation for family needs. |
| Young Professionals | Jackson | Median Income: $42,336 | Highest concentration of jobs and economic activity in the state. |
| Remote Workers | Jackson | COL Index: 87.3 | Your out-of-state salary goes 12.7% further than the national average. |
| Retirees | Jackson | Health Score: 73.5 | Reasonable healthcare access combined with low daily expenses preserves savings. |
| Budget-Conscious | Jackson | COL Index: 87.3 | The most significant financial relief from national averages is found here. |
Regional Analysis
When moving to Mississippi, it is helpful to break the state down into regions, though this guide focuses on the capital.
The Capital Region (Jackson):
This is the urban core of the state. With a population of 143,633, it is the only city in this dataset. It represents the Metro Core lifestyle. Expect the highest density of jobs, government institutions, and healthcare facilities. The Housing Index of 100.0 indicates that while general costs are low, housing is priced at the national median, making it the "premium" location within the affordable state.
The Suburbs (Surrounding Hinds/Madison/Rankin Counties):
While not detailed in this specific data set, the suburbs of Jackson generally offer lower housing costs than the city center (often falling well below the 100.0 index). This region is ideal for those who work in Jackson but desire more space and lower property taxes.
Rural/Smaller Cities:
Outside of the capital, Mississippi becomes significantly more rural. In these areas, the COL index often drops below 80, and housing becomes incredibly cheap. However, the trade-off is limited job markets and healthcare access. This region is best suited for retirees or those with fully remote income sources.
The Verdict: Should You Move to Mississippi?
After analyzing the data for Jackson and comparing it to state and national averages, here is the 2026 verdict.
Pros
- Significant Cost of Living Savings: With a COL index of 87.3, you effectively get a 12.7% raise simply by moving from the national average.
- Affordable Urban Rent: At $1,077/month for a 2-bedroom apartment in the state's largest city, rent is significantly lower than in comparable cities in other states.
- Manageable Urban Density: Jackson's population of 143,633 offers city amenities without the overwhelming congestion of mega-cities.
- Favorable Tax Environment: Mississippi continues to offer a competitive tax structure that benefits low-to-middle income earners.
Cons
- Income Ceiling: The median income of $42,336 is below the national average, which may limit savings potential for those not working remotely or in high-paying specialized fields.
- Infrastructure Challenges: Older cities like Jackson often face infrastructure maintenance issues (water, roads), which can be a frustration for residents.
- Limited Data on Safety: The lack of specific crime rate data (-) makes it difficult to fully assess safety, a major concern for families and retirees.
Bottom Line
Mississippi is an excellent choice for remote workers, retirees, and families prioritizing affordability and space, provided you can secure a median or above-median income to maximize the state's low cost of living.
FAQs: Moving to Mississippi in 2026
What is the cheapest city to live in Mississippi?
Based on the available data for major cities, Jackson is the most affordable urban center analyzed. With a Cost of Living Index of 87.3, it offers significant savings over the US average. While smaller rural towns may be cheaper, Jackson provides the best balance of low cost and urban infrastructure.
What salary do I need to live comfortably in Mississippi?
To live comfortably in Jackson, a single person should aim for a salary that covers rent ($1,077), utilities, and savings. Given the COL index of 87.3, a salary of $50,000 - $55,000 would provide a very comfortable lifestyle, well above the median of $42,336.
What is the safest city in Mississippi?
While this specific guide does not have granular crime rate data for every municipality, safety is often correlated with the suburbs of major metros. In the absence of specific crime data for Jackson (291.2), prospective residents should look to the surrounding suburban areas or specific gated communities within the city limits.
Is Mississippi a good state for families?
Yes, Mississippi is highly attractive for families on a budget. The combination of a low COL index (87.3) and affordable rent ($1,077) allows families to survive on a single median income more easily than in almost any other state. The trade-off is often in public school funding, which is lower than the national average.
What are the fastest growing cities in Mississippi?
Historically, growth in Mississippi has centered on the Jackson suburbs (Madison, Rankin counties) and the Gulf Coast. While Jackson remains the population center with 143,633 people, the surrounding areas often see faster percentage growth due to families seeking lower property taxes and newer school districts while staying close to the capital's job market.