Columbus, MS

Very Low · 53

Mississippi · Population 23,616 · Updated March 2026

$882
Median Rent / Month
$40,588
Median Income
$121,200
Median Home Value
$844
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Columbus

26.1%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Moderate
Rent takes 25-35% of median income — moderate affordability.

Tax Burden in Mississippi

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

5.0%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
7.0%
Sales Tax
0.67%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$10,584
Annual Rent
$2,029
State Income Tax
$812
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Columbus is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 53 (where 100 equals the national median), Columbus residents can expect to pay median rent of $882/month while earning a median household income of $40,588/year.

The median home value in Columbus, MS is $121,200, with typical monthly owner costs around $844 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 26.1%, Columbus falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.

Mississippi has a moderate income tax rate of 5.0%. Combined with a 7.0% sales tax rate and 0.67% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Columbus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Columbus

What is the cost of living in Columbus, MS?
The cost of living index in Columbus, MS is 53 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $882, median household income is $40,588/year, and the median home value is $121,200.
Is Columbus, MS affordable?
Yes, Columbus is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 53. The rent-to-income ratio is 26.1%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Columbus, MS?
The median gross rent in Columbus, MS is $882 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $10,584.
What is the median household income in Columbus?
The median household income in Columbus, MS is $40,588 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Mississippi?
Mississippi has a top income tax rate of 5.0%, a sales tax of 7.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.67%.