Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Jackson, MS (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Jackson

Mississippi
58

Philadelphia is 47% more expensive than Jackson.

$1,323/mo ↑ 30%
Median Rent
$1,018/mo ↓ 23%
$60,698/yr ↑ 40%
Median Income
$43,238/yr ↓ 29%
$232,400 ↑ 115%
Home Value
$108,200 ↓ 53%
$1,233/mo ↑ 29%
Owner Costs
$956/mo ↓ 22%
1,582,432
Population
149,827

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
5.0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
7.0%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.67%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Jackson, MS, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 58 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $305/month cheaper in Jackson, saving renters about $3,660/year.

Median household income is $17,460/year higher in Philadelphia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $108,200 in Jackson.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Jackson — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Jackson cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Jackson is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 85 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Jackson?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Jackson it's $1,018/month — a difference of $305/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Jackson?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $43,238 in Jackson. Median household income is $17,460/year higher in Philadelphia.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Mississippi?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Mississippi has 5.0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Jackson?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Jackson has a cost index of 58 with rent of $1,018/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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