Cost of Living: Jackson, MS vs Lansing, MI (2026)

Jackson

Mississippi
58
VS

Lansing

Michigan
58

Jackson and Lansing have a similar cost of living.

$1,018/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$976/mo ↓ 4%
$43,238/yr ↓ 17%
Median Income
$52,170/yr ↑ 21%
$108,200 ↓ 9%
Home Value
$119,400 ↑ 10%
$956/mo ↓ 2%
Owner Costs
$978/mo ↑ 2%
149,827
Population
112,546

Tax Comparison

5.0%
Income Tax
4.25%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.67%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

28.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Jackson, MS and Lansing, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 58 and 58 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $8,932/year higher in Lansing. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Jackson is $108,200 compared to $119,400 in Lansing.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Lansing slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Jackson vs Lansing — common questions

Is Jackson or Lansing cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Lansing is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 58 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Jackson and Lansing?
Median rent in Jackson is $1,018/month and in Lansing it's $976/month — a difference of $42/month.
Which city has higher income, Jackson or Lansing?
Median household income is $43,238 in Jackson and $52,170 in Lansing. Median household income is $8,932/year higher in Lansing.
How do taxes compare between Mississippi and Michigan?
Mississippi has 5.0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Jackson or Lansing?
It depends on your priorities. Jackson has a cost index of 58 with median rent of $1,018/mo, while Lansing has a cost index of 58 with rent of $976/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Jackson details → View Lansing details →

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