Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
31% cheaper
Jackson is 31% more affordable than Manchester. A $75,000 salary in Manchester is equivalent to $52,119 in Jackson.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Mississippi salaries · New Hampshire salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jackson has a housing index of 56 while Manchester sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Jackson costs $125,000 compared to $350,000 in Manchester, a difference of $225,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $900 in Jackson versus $1,600 in Manchester.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Jackson scores 95 while Manchester scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jackson (88) are lower than Manchester (112).
Median household income in Jackson is $36,528 compared to $65,018 in Manchester. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jackson.
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