Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
18% cheaper
Jackson is 18% more affordable than Charlotte. A $75,000 salary in Charlotte is equivalent to $61,500 in Jackson.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: North Carolina salaries · Mississippi salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charlotte has a housing index of 99 while Jackson sits at 56 (national average = 100). The median home in Charlotte costs $330,000 compared to $125,000 in Jackson, a difference of $205,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Charlotte versus $900 in Jackson.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Charlotte scores 101 while Jackson scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Charlotte (105) are higher than Jackson (88).
Median household income in Charlotte is $62,308 compared to $36,528 in Jackson. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jackson.
Amazon affiliate links