Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
23% cheaper
Jackson is 23% more affordable than Chicago. A $75,000 salary in Chicago is equivalent to $57,477 in Jackson.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Illinois salaries · Mississippi salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Chicago has a housing index of 112 while Jackson sits at 56 (national average = 100). The median home in Chicago costs $310,000 compared to $125,000 in Jackson, a difference of $185,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Chicago versus $900 in Jackson.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Chicago scores 104 while Jackson scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Chicago (101) are higher than Jackson (88).
Median household income in Chicago is $62,097 compared to $36,528 in Jackson. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jackson.
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