Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
20% cheaper
Jackson is 20% more affordable than Wilmington. A $75,000 salary in Wilmington is equivalent to $59,709 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 · North Carolina salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jackson has a housing index of 56 while Wilmington sits at 108 (national average = 100). The median home in Jackson costs $125,000 compared to $320,000 in Wilmington, a difference of $195,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $900 in Jackson versus $1,400 in Wilmington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Jackson scores 95 while Wilmington scores 101. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jackson (88) are lower than Wilmington (106).
Median household income in Jackson is $36,528 compared to $48,432 in Wilmington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jackson.
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