Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
20% cheaper
Jackson is 20% more affordable than Dallas. A $75,000 salary in Dallas is equivalent to $59,709 in Jackson.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · Mississippi salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Dallas has a housing index of 104 while Jackson sits at 56 (national average = 100). The median home in Dallas costs $310,000 compared to $125,000 in Jackson, a difference of $185,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Dallas versus $900 in Jackson.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Dallas scores 97 while Jackson scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Dallas (100) are higher than Jackson (88).
Median household income in Dallas is $54,747 compared to $36,528 in Jackson. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jackson.
Amazon affiliate links