Cost of Living: Jackson, MS vs Lakeland, FL (2026)

Jackson

Mississippi
58
VS

Lakeland

Florida
82

Jackson is 29% cheaper than Lakeland.

$1,018/mo ↓ 22%
Median Rent
$1,299/mo ↑ 28%
$43,238/yr ↓ 29%
Median Income
$60,947/yr ↑ 41%
$108,200 ↓ 53%
Home Value
$229,100 ↑ 112%
$956/mo ↓ 17%
Owner Costs
$1,149/mo ↑ 20%
149,827
Population
117,030

Tax Comparison

5.0%
Income Tax
0%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.67%
Property Tax
0.86%

Affordability

28.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Jackson, MS and Lakeland, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 58 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $281/month cheaper in Jackson, saving renters about $3,372/year.

Median household income is $17,709/year higher in Lakeland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Jackson is $108,200 compared to $229,100 in Lakeland.

Florida has no state income tax, giving Lakeland residents a significant tax advantage over Mississippi's 5.0% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Jackson vs Lakeland — common questions

Is Jackson or Lakeland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Jackson is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 82 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Jackson and Lakeland?
Median rent in Jackson is $1,018/month and in Lakeland it's $1,299/month — a difference of $281/month.
Which city has higher income, Jackson or Lakeland?
Median household income is $43,238 in Jackson and $60,947 in Lakeland. Median household income is $17,709/year higher in Lakeland.
How do taxes compare between Mississippi and Florida?
Mississippi has 5.0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.
Should I move to Jackson or Lakeland?
It depends on your priorities. Jackson has a cost index of 58 with median rent of $1,018/mo, while Lakeland has a cost index of 82 with rent of $1,299/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Jackson details → View Lakeland details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Jackson and Lakeland

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