Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
23% cheaper
Jackson is 23% more affordable than Springfield. A $75,000 salary in Springfield is equivalent to $57,477 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 · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jackson has a housing index of 56 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Jackson costs $125,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $105,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $900 in Jackson versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Jackson scores 95 while Springfield scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jackson (88) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in Jackson is $36,528 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jackson.
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