Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
27% cheaper
Jackson is 27% more affordable than Modesto. A $75,000 salary in Modesto is equivalent to $54,911 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 · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jackson has a housing index of 56 while Modesto sits at 121 (national average = 100). The median home in Jackson costs $125,000 compared to $380,000 in Modesto, a difference of $255,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $900 in Jackson versus $1,400 in Modesto.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Jackson scores 95 while Modesto scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jackson (88) are lower than Modesto (100).
Median household income in Jackson is $36,528 compared to $55,138 in Modesto. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jackson.
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