Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Jackson is 12% more affordable than Murfreesboro. A $75,000 salary in Murfreesboro is equivalent to $66,129 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 · Tennessee salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jackson has a housing index of 56 while Murfreesboro sits at 85 (national average = 100). The median home in Jackson costs $125,000 compared to $325,000 in Murfreesboro, a difference of $200,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $900 in Jackson versus $1,350 in Murfreesboro.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Jackson scores 95 while Murfreesboro scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jackson (88) are lower than Murfreesboro (96).
Median household income in Jackson is $36,528 compared to $55,200 in Murfreesboro. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jackson.
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