Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
36% cheaper
Jackson is 36% more affordable than Riverside. A $75,000 salary in Riverside is equivalent to $48,047 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 Riverside sits at 155 (national average = 100). The median home in Jackson costs $125,000 compared to $500,000 in Riverside, a difference of $375,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $900 in Jackson versus $1,800 in Riverside.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Jackson scores 95 while Riverside scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jackson (88) are lower than Riverside (102).
Median household income in Jackson is $36,528 compared to $67,068 in Riverside. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jackson.
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