Cost of Living: Jackson, MS vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Jackson

Mississippi
58
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Jackson is 38% cheaper than Rochester.

$1,018/mo ↓ 23%
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ↑ 29%
$43,238/yr ↓ 51%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 103%
$108,200 ↓ 62%
Home Value
$287,500 ↑ 166%
$956/mo ↓ 28%
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ↑ 39%
149,827
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

5.0%
Income Tax
9.85%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
6.875%
0.67%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

28.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Jackson, MS and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 58 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $298/month cheaper in Jackson, saving renters about $3,576/year.

Median household income is $44,529/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Jackson is $108,200 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Jackson vs Rochester — common questions

Is Jackson or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Jackson is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 93 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Jackson and Rochester?
Median rent in Jackson is $1,018/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $298/month.
Which city has higher income, Jackson or Rochester?
Median household income is $43,238 in Jackson and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $44,529/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between Mississippi and Minnesota?
Mississippi has 5.0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Jackson or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Jackson has a cost index of 58 with median rent of $1,018/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 93 with rent of $1,316/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Jackson details → View Rochester details →

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