Cheapest Places to Live in Mississippi

Access hyperlocal data to help you make a confident and informed decision.

Mississippi, with its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and southern charm, offers a unique and affordable living experience. Landmarks such as the Natchez Trace Parkway, the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, and the Vicksburg National Military Park highlight the state's attractions. The state's economy is largely driven by sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. Mississippi's tax structure includes relatively low income and property taxes, contributing to its overall affordability. Despite recent inflation and rising food costs, Mississippi remains one of the more affordable states in the southern region, especially in its smaller towns and rural areas. The combination of a diverse economy and manageable living costs makes Mississippi an attractive place for those seeking affordability and quality of life.

Affordable living in Mississippi can often be found in smaller towns and suburban areas where housing costs and everyday expenses are lower. These regions provide a more manageable cost of living, which is essential for maintaining financial stability. Affordability is a crucial factor in livability, as it allows residents to enjoy a comfortable standard of living without undue financial strain. Factors contributing to the cheapest places to live in Mississippi include lower housing demand in less populated areas, supportive local economic policies, and efficient public services. Using AI-assisted city-level cost of living estimates, supported by U.S. Census housing data and regional economic modeling, helps identify these affordable regions and gives potential residents a practical way to compare affordability from one city to the next. In a state known for its cultural richness and economic opportunities, finding affordable living options enhances the overall living experience.

Waynesboro Population: 5,023 8% cheaper than Mississippi average

Med. Home Value: $124,040 Med. Rent: $714 Med. Household Inc.: $28,446

With a cost of living index that is 8% cheaper than the state average, Waynesboro is the cheapest place to live in Mississippi. This area offers residents a remarkable blend of relatively low housing costs, budget-friendly grocery prices, affordable utilities, and economical health care services, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to stretch their dollars further. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life, Waynesboro provides an inviting and cost-effective environment to call home.

Clarksdale Population: 15,683 6% cheaper than Mississippi average

Med. Home Value: $119,380 Med. Rent: $939 Med. Household Inc.: $46,054

The second most affordable city in Mississippi is Clarksdale and stands out for its cost-effective lifestyle. With an overall cost of living that is 6% cheaper than the Mississippi average, overall goods and services, housing, utilities, transportation and health care costs fall within a reasonable range. Median household income levels are steady and come in at , which helps to increase the purchasing power of the local residents.

Columbia Population: 6,125 5% cheaper than Mississippi average

Med. Home Value: $141,381 Med. Rent: $887 Med. Household Inc.: $36,174

Columbia lands in the #3 spot for the cheapest cities to live in Mississippi, with a cost of living that is 5% cheaper than the state average. With home prices averaging and rental rates coming in around , it helps that household income levels average about , which assists with paying the mortgage or your monthly rent. Its robust public school system and accessible health care further enhance its appeal, making it a great place to settle down. The strong community spirit and ample recreational opportunities add to its charm.

Yazoo City Population: 11,022 5% cheaper than Mississippi average

Med. Home Value: $129,652 Med. Rent: $1,071 Med. Household Inc.: $37,436

The cost of everyday grocery items, goods & services and of course housing, can have a significant impact on the overall cost of living in any area. Yazoo City offers a picturesque and affordable living environment, with a cost of living that is 5% cheaper than the state average. Everyday items like ground beef , eggs , coffee and pizza are all fairly reasonable compared to most other cities, which helps reduce those grocery bills. Home prices are also fairly affordable (compared to the state average), coming in at around .

Aberdeen Population: 5,435 4% cheaper than Mississippi average

Med. Home Value: $143,708 Med. Rent: $877 Med. Household Inc.: $63,593

For those wanting to live well on a budget, Aberdeen is ideal, with a cost of living that is 4% cheaper than the state average. Reasonable housing prices (compared to the Mississippi average) of and rental prices of are paired with economical goods and services and a range of free or low-cost recreational activities. The city's proactive economic development initiatives also ensure a steady stream of job opportunities, making it a smart choice for those prioritizing financial ease.

Greenwood Population: 14,347 4% cheaper than Mississippi average

Med. Home Value: $158,493 Med. Rent: $828 Med. Household Inc.: $47,723

Greenwood comes in at #6 on our list of the cheapest cities in Mississippi and is a haven for those seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience. The city is known for its discount shopping centers and budget-friendly dining options and has a cost of living that is 4% cheaper than Mississippi. The city's local markets provide fresh produce and other groceries at reduced prices, while parks and community centers offer free entertainment and leisure. This city is perfect for enjoying a high quality of life at a low cost.

Kosciusko Population: 7,037 4% cheaper than Mississippi average

Med. Home Value: $190,093 Med. Rent: $695 Med. Household Inc.: $38,228

With its cost-effective lifestyle, Kosciusko is an attractive destination for those looking to live affordably. The city boasts suitable housing costs, affordable healthcare, and a variety of budget-friendly dining options. The community is welcoming and vibrant, providing residents with a rich social life at a fraction of the cost. Median income levels come in at , which provides financial stability, purchasing power and increases the quality of life in the city.

Forest Population: 5,731 3% cheaper than Mississippi average

Med. Home Value: $172,824 Med. Rent: $900 Med. Household Inc.: $65,905

A lower cost of living allows individuals to manage their expenses more effectively, reducing the risk of financial stress and debt. When essential costs such as housing, food, transportation, and healthcare are more affordable, people can achieve greater financial stability and resilience. Forest fits that mold and has a cost of living that is 3% cheaper than Mississippi.

Greenville Population: 30,605 3% cheaper than Mississippi average

Med. Home Value: $142,570 Med. Rent: $1,098 Med. Household Inc.: $43,995

Lower living costs can lead to a higher quality of life by making it easier for people to afford comfortable housing, nutritious food, and access to healthcare. It can also provide opportunities for better education, recreational activities, and community engagement, contributing to overall well-being. Greenville is one of the most affordable cities in Mississippi, and has a cost of living that is 3% cheaper than the state average.

Meridian Population: 38,491 3% cheaper than Mississippi average

Med. Home Value: $154,953 Med. Rent: $1,061 Med. Household Inc.: $45,599

With a cost of living that is 3% cheaper than Mississippi, Meridian comes in at #10 on our list of the cheapest places to live in Mississippi. Financial stress is a significant factor affecting mental and physical health. By lowering the cost of living, individuals can experience reduced anxiety related to meeting monthly expenses, thereby improving overall health and well-being. The ability to afford basic necessities without constant worry contributes to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Full list of the cheapest places in Mississippi

Rank	Location	Population	COL Index	Med. Home Value	Med. Household Inc.
1	Waynesboro	5,023	79	$124,040	$28,446
2	Clarksdale	15,683	81	$119,380	$46,054
3	Columbia	6,125	81	$141,381	$36,174
4	Yazoo City	11,022	81	$129,652	$37,436
5	Aberdeen	5,435	82	$143,708	$63,593
6	Greenwood	14,347	82	$158,493	$47,723
7	Kosciusko	7,037	82	$190,093	$38,228
8	Forest	5,731	83	$172,824	$65,905
9	Greenville	30,605	83	$142,570	$43,995
10	Meridian	38,491	83	$154,953	$45,599
11	Leakesville	5,597	83	$167,295	$46,651
12	Brookhaven	12,524	83	$168,160	$46,261
13	Philadelphia	7,379	84	$155,639	$59,083
14	Laurel	18,971	84	$170,515	$51,203
15	Indianola	9,550	84	$162,805	$46,742
16	Natchez	15,207	84	$177,335	$40,424
17	Holly Springs	7,919	84	$152,230	$51,042
18	West Point	10,912	84	$167,708	$44,713
19	Jackson	168,127	85	$163,913	$59,653
20	Louisville	6,193	85	$182,623	$46,958
21	Grenada	12,751	85	$173,795	$46,933
22	Ripley	5,421	85	$196,530	$69,673
23	Vicksburg	22,799	85	$195,364	$51,798
24	Canton	12,207	86	$188,803	$47,460
25	Hattiesburg	47,823	87	$197,208	$53,085
26	Moss Point	13,734	87	$176,031	$66,925
27	McComb	13,253	87	$161,548	$45,328
28	Booneville	8,772	87	$232,932	$62,760
29	Picayune	11,292	87	$209,432	$46,946
30	New Albany	9,039	87	$200,147	$63,348
31	Pascagoula	22,492	88	$204,506	$61,207
32	Corinth	14,869	88	$241,068	$50,687
33	Richland	7,410	88	$205,951	$70,312
34	Amory	7,099	88	$224,625	$64,650
35	Columbus	24,360	89	$203,658	$51,645
36	Cleveland	11,812	89	$233,381	$52,597
37	Petal	10,849	90	$240,278	$86,860
38	Pearl	27,352	90	$235,014	$73,932
39	Horn Lake	28,196	90	$208,496	$78,534
40	St. Martin	8,380	90	$217,596	$78,118
41	Pontotoc	6,205	90	$259,777	$74,347
42	Gulfport	73,689	90	$243,785	$61,023
43	Senatobia	7,927	91	$262,602	$84,073
44	Waveland	6,520	91	$280,556	$69,298
45	West Hattiesburg	6,083	92	$272,429	$59,966
46	Gautier	19,005	92	$253,477	$77,471
47	Tupelo	39,384	92	$273,972	$83,001
48	Latimer	6,351	92	$266,584	$101,332
49	Byram	11,831	93	$254,225	$99,777
50	Saltillo	5,133	93	$261,683	$87,652

Methodology

To formulate the list of the cheapest places to live in Mississippi, a city-level cost of living model was used with a national average baseline of 100. This framework is designed to provide a practical comparison of how far your dollar may go across different urban areas. Housing estimates incorporate the latest available U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are generated using AI-assisted economic models based on expected everyday expenses, regional pricing trends, climate, transportation patterns, and local economic conditions. The overall index is weighted across key spending categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%).

Map of Cost of Living by State

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The map above is a great way to help you discover the most affordable states across the U.S. By highlighting states with the lowest cost of living, this map provides an in-depth look at where you can get the most value for your money. By visually representing this data, the map allows users to easily compare different regions and make informed decisions about potential relocations or investments. Additionally, it provides valuable insights into the economic conditions and lifestyle factors that influence these cost of living statistics. Whether you're planning a move, considering a new job, or simply curious about the economic landscape, this map is a useful resource for understanding and navigating the financial implications of living in different states.