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

Rochester

New York
61
VS

Jackson

Mississippi
58

Rochester is 5% more expensive than Jackson.

$1,039/mo ↑ 2%
Median Rent
$1,018/mo ↓ 2%
$46,628/yr ↑ 8%
Median Income
$43,238/yr ↓ 7%
$120,600 ↑ 11%
Home Value
$108,200 ↓ 10%
$1,009/mo ↑ 6%
Owner Costs
$956/mo ↓ 5%
209,720
Population
149,827

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
5.0%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
7.0%
1.62%
Property Tax
0.67%

Affordability

26.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and Jackson, MS, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 58 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $3,390/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $108,200 in Jackson.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Jackson — common questions

Is Rochester or Jackson cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Jackson is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 61 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rochester and Jackson?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in Jackson it's $1,018/month — a difference of $21/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or Jackson?
Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $43,238 in Jackson. Median household income is $3,390/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between New York and Mississippi?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Mississippi has 5.0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax.
Should I move to Rochester or Jackson?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/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.
View Rochester details → View Jackson details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Rochester and Jackson

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