Cost of Living: Jackson, MS vs Carlsbad, CA (2026)

Jackson

Mississippi
58
VS

Carlsbad

California
253

Jackson is 77% cheaper than Carlsbad.

$1,018/mo ↓ 62%
Median Rent
$2,678/mo ↑ 163%
$43,238/yr ↓ 69%
Median Income
$139,326/yr ↑ 222%
$108,200 ↓ 91%
Home Value
$1,156,900 ↑ 969%
$956/mo ↓ 66%
Owner Costs
$2,801/mo ↑ 193%
149,827
Population
114,500

Tax Comparison

5.0%
Income Tax
13.3%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
7.25%
0.67%
Property Tax
0.71%

Affordability

28.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Jackson, MS and Carlsbad, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 58 and 253 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,660/month cheaper in Jackson, saving renters about $19,920/year.

Median household income is $96,088/year higher in Carlsbad. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Jackson is $108,200 compared to $1,156,900 in Carlsbad.

Mississippi has a lower income tax rate, making Jackson slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Jackson vs Carlsbad — common questions

Is Jackson or Carlsbad cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Jackson is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 253 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Jackson and Carlsbad?
Median rent in Jackson is $1,018/month and in Carlsbad it's $2,678/month — a difference of $1,660/month.
Which city has higher income, Jackson or Carlsbad?
Median household income is $43,238 in Jackson and $139,326 in Carlsbad. Median household income is $96,088/year higher in Carlsbad.
How do taxes compare between Mississippi and California?
Mississippi has 5.0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.
Should I move to Jackson or Carlsbad?
It depends on your priorities. Jackson has a cost index of 58 with median rent of $1,018/mo, while Carlsbad has a cost index of 253 with rent of $2,678/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Jackson details → View Carlsbad details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Jackson and Carlsbad

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