Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
19% cheaper
Jackson is 19% more affordable than Durham. A $75,000 salary in Durham is equivalent to $60,891 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. Durham has a housing index of 104 while Jackson sits at 56 (national average = 100). The median home in Durham costs $340,000 compared to $125,000 in Jackson, a difference of $215,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Durham versus $900 in Jackson.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Durham scores 100 while Jackson scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Durham (108) are higher than Jackson (88).
Median household income in Durham is $57,738 compared to $36,528 in Jackson. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jackson.
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