Cost of Living in Jackson County, Mississippi
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jackson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jackson County ranks #2,646 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jackson County, Mississippi
Jackson County: higher income, higher costs
Jackson County's 20.1% rent-to-income ratio sits just above Mississippi's 19.6% state average, reflecting a county where both incomes and housing costs run elevated. With median household income at $64,756—86% of the national median—and median rent at $1,087, Jackson represents Mississippi's most economically dynamic region but with correspondingly steeper housing prices.
Jackson County leads state in earnings
Jackson County's median household income of $64,756 is the highest in this comparison group and runs 34% above Mississippi's typical county. Though its 20.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the state average of 19.6%, Jackson's strong income base makes housing more sustainable than in most Mississippi counties.
Highest wages, steepest rents
Jackson County's $1,087 median rent is the highest in this region—only Hinds County ($1,032) comes close—but Jackson's median income of $64,756 dwarfs comparison counties like Hinds ($49,966) or Humphreys ($32,976). This income advantage makes Jackson's pricier housing more manageable in real terms.
Strong incomes offset elevated housing
Renters spend $1,087 monthly while homeowners face $963, with median home value at $181,700—the highest in this cluster—and median income at $64,756 annually. Housing consumes 20.1% of gross income for renters, remaining affordable despite Jackson's position as Mississippi's economic engine.
Pay more, earn more in Jackson County
Jackson County offers Mississippi's strongest job market and highest incomes at $64,756 median, though housing costs run steep with rents at $1,087 and home values averaging $181,700. This coastal county suits households prioritizing career opportunity and economic growth over rock-bottom housing affordability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jackson County
Affordability Verdict
Jackson County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,087/month representing approximately 20.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,087/month rent versus $963/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $124/month cheaper — a 11% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,271/year. With a median household income of $64,756, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Jackson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Mississippi, Jackson County is more affordable than Hinds County by roughly 5% ($1,087/mo vs $1,032/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jackson County
Rent Burden
20.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,511
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jackson County
Median home value is $181,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,451 vs. your max of $1,511.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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