A+
17%
Overall NAT. AVG.
3%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
41%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Brookhaven Mississippi National
Cost of living8386100
Groceries9797100
Health care9195100
Housing5963100
Transportation9294100
Utilities9698100
Lifestyle & Entertainment9094100
Household Items9696100
Education & Childcare9794100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Brookhaven, MS

Knowing the cost of living in Brookhaven allows individuals to create a realistic budget. This helps them understand how their income will cover expenses and whether they need to make financial adjustments. The cost of living in any region can fluctuate due to various factors. To assess the cost of living consistently across different areas, a national average of 100 serves as the basis for the cost of living index. The cost of living in Brookhaven stands at 83, marking it 17% lower than the national average.

Housing expenses can absorb a substantial portion of your net income, sometimes exceeding 30%. Thankfully, Brookhaven stands out by reporting housing costs that are 41.4% lower than the national average. This signifies that both homeownership and rental expenses in this region are considerably more budget-friendly compared to the rest of the country. With such favorable housing affordability, residents of Brookhaven can allocate a more reasonable portion of their income to housing, allowing for greater financial flexibility.

Is Brookhaven Affordable?

Wondering if Brookhaven is affordable? It's a question that often comes up when you're thinking about a new city since affordability can really shape your decisions. The cost of living index (covered earlier), housing expenses and income levels all play a part in the affordability equation. In Brookhaven, for example, the median home price is 48.5% lower than what folks pay nationally, and monthly rent is 24.9% lower than the usual rates. Plus, income levels matter too, with Brookhaven boasting a median household income of $46,261, which is 43.1% lower than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Brookhaven?

Urbanization: Urban areas with a wealth of amenities and employment opportunities tend to come with a higher price tag for living. Why? Well, more people want to be there, which drives up home prices and rents. On the flip side, less densely populated rural areas or places where there's not as much demand usually mean fewer attractions, things to do and slower job growth. That often results in a lower cost of living.

Subsidies: Some areas might offer government subsidies or assistance programs that help lower cost of living for residents. These programs can include anything from Medicare, Medicaid, housing subsidies, low-income home energy assistance programs, school lunch programs, supplemental nutrition assistance programs, student loans, electric vehicle tax credits, affordable care act subsidies and crop subsidies. Areas that offer less subsidies, could see an increase in their cost of living.

Utilities: Much like any other costs, utility expenses can exhibit considerable variations, influenced by factors such as climate, available energy sources, geographic location and state regulations. The costs associated with electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can vary significantly depending on the city or state in question. In Brookhaven, the utilities index stands at 4.5% lower than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living estimates displayed for Brookhaven are modeled using a U.S. average baseline of 100, helping provide a useful comparison of local living expenses. Housing calculations include U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are AI-assisted estimates based on regional cost patterns, climate, transportation, and everyday spending expectations. These values are intended for directional comparisons across cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Brookhaven is 2% lower than the Mississippi average
  • The cost of living in Brookhaven is 17% lower than the national average
  • Brookhaven housing is 41% lower than the national average
  • Mississippi general sales tax is 37% higher than the national average
  • Mississippi state income tax is 93% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Brookhaven

See all the best places to live around Brookhaven

Compare Brookhaven, MS Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$62,411$5,201$1,456$1,873
      Renters$29,936$2,495$698$898
      The percentage of monthly income spent on housing related expenses can help predict the affordability of housing in Brookhaven, MS, as well as what the overall cost of living might be. Generally, a good rule to follow is that the debt-to-income (DTI) level you want to maintain is 28 percent or less of your income on your rent or mortgage payments and not more than 36 percent of income on all expenses and debts. In Brookhaven, homeowners have a median income of $62,411. Using that number, a maximum of $1,456 per month should be allocated to housing expenses. For those who are renting instead of owning, the median income is $29,936, which means there is a maximum of $698 to be spent on the costs of renting a home or apartment.

      Mississippi Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Mississippi 7% 7.25%

      Mississippi Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Mississippi 5% 5%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Beauregard, MS5028416.3%
      Wesson, MS2,280919.4%
      Brookhaven, MS12,5248316.5%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Tucson Estates, AZ12,524982.1%
      Abbeville, LA12,5258514.5%
      Kincardine, ON12,522n/a 
      Orange City, FL12,5211000.3%
      Fortuna, CA12,53212423.5%
      Brookhaven, MS12,5248316.5%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.