Cost of Living: Jackson, MS vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Jackson

Mississippi
58
VS

Tuscaloosa

Alabama
73

Jackson is 21% cheaper than Tuscaloosa.

$1,018/mo ↑ 1%
Median Rent
$1,005/mo ↓ 1%
$43,238/yr ↓ 11%
Median Income
$48,536/yr ↑ 12%
$108,200 ↓ 54%
Home Value
$236,600 ↑ 119%
$956/mo ↓ 8%
Owner Costs
$1,038/mo ↑ 9%
149,827
Population
107,699

Tax Comparison

5.0%
Income Tax
5.0%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
0.67%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

28.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Jackson, MS and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 58 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $5,298/year higher in Tuscaloosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Jackson is $108,200 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Jackson vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Jackson or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Jackson is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 73 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Jackson and Tuscaloosa?
Median rent in Jackson is $1,018/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $13/month.
Which city has higher income, Jackson or Tuscaloosa?
Median household income is $43,238 in Jackson and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $5,298/year higher in Tuscaloosa.
How do taxes compare between Mississippi and Alabama?
Mississippi has 5.0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Jackson or Tuscaloosa?
It depends on your priorities. Jackson has a cost index of 58 with median rent of $1,018/mo, while Tuscaloosa has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,005/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Jackson details → View Tuscaloosa details →

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