Cost of Living in Mississippi in 2025

Mississippi Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

Housing Costs: Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Mississippi is projected to reach $720 in 2025, showing steady growth over the years.
Transportation Expenses: Public transit fares are affordable with a one-way ticket at $1.50 and monthly pass at $50; fuel prices remain lower than national average at $2.94 per gallon.
Healthcare Costs: Employer-sponsored health insurance premiums average $122.33 monthly, with silver plan options around $500 monthly.
Income Levels: Median household income is forecasted to be $56,000 in 2025, reflecting gradual economic improvement.

Mississippi offers one of the more affordable living environments in the US, reflected in its cost structure for housing, transportation and daily expenses.

This article presents a detailed breakdown of the cost of living in Mississippi for 2025, covering various essential sectors and expenses.

Housing Costs in Mississippi

Housing represents a major portion of living expenses. Below is a timeline of average rents for a one-bedroom apartment in Mississippi:

2010: Approximately $600
2015: Around $650
2020: About $700
2024: Reached $707
2025: Projected at $720

This steady increase in rent reflects the demand trends and economic conditions affecting housing affordability in Mississippi.

Employers should also consider hospitality real estate market trends when planning expansions or relocations.

Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in Mississippi

For potential homeowners, historical median home prices indicate real estate market developments:

2010: Median home price approximately $150,000
2015: Increased to $170,000
2020: Around $200,000
2024: Measured at $243,000
2025: Projected at $250,000

Property values have consistently grown, making Mississippi's real estate market attractive yet still affordable compared to many states.

Transportation Expenses in Mississippi

Transportation costs in Mississippi remain reasonable with various affordable options:

Public Transit: One-way fare averages $1.50; monthly passes cost about $50.
Fuel Prices: Gasoline prices are around $2.94 per gallon in 2025.
Vehicle Maintenance: Annual maintenance costs commonly total about $1,000.

These figures suggest that transportation expenses are quite accessible in Mississippi, supporting resident mobility.

Utility Costs in Mississippi

A typical monthly utility bill for a standard household usually includes:

Electricity: Approximately $120
Internet: About $60
Total Utilities: Averaging $180 monthly

Utility costs here are lower than many parts of the US, contributing positively to overall affordability.

Grocery and Food Expenses in Mississippi

Monthly grocery expenses per person tally around $290.64, which is slightly below the national average.

Dining out is economical, with casual meals costing about $12 and mid-range restaurant meals approximately $40.

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Healthcare Costs in Mississippi

Healthcare-related spending includes both insurance premium contributions and out-of-pocket costs for services.

Employer-sponsored health insurance premiums average about $122.33 monthly, while silver health plans are available for roughly $500 monthly.

Educational Expenses in Mississippi

Education costs vary by institution type:

Public Schools: Generally free for residents, funded through local taxes.
Private Schools: Average tuition around $7,000 annually.
Higher Education: In-state university tuition averages about $8,000 per year.

These figures are important considerations for families and students planning ahead financially.

Entertainment and Leisure in Mississippi

Entertainment options are affordable with various typical costs:

Movie Tickets: Cost about $10 each.
Gym Memberships: Monthly fee near $30.
Dining Out: Mid-range restaurant meals typically $40.

Annual spending on entertainment averages around $2,000, encompassing movies, events and leisure activities.

Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in Mississippi

Reviewing tax obligations clarifies living expenses:

State Income Tax: Ranges between 0% and 5%, depending on income bracket.
Sales Tax: Total sales tax is about 7%.
Property Tax: Average rate is approximately 0.67% of property value.

These tax rates are integral components of Mississippi's overall cost of living profile.

Childcare and Family Expenses in Mississippi

Childcare costs reflect essential expenses for families:

Daycare: Average monthly cost near $453.
After-School Programs: Typically around $200 per month.
Extracurricular Activities: Monthly expenses average about $100.

These costs should be factored in by families budgeting for childcare and enrichment.

Clothing and Personal Care in Mississippi

Month-to-month spending on personal items and apparel is moderate:

Clothing: Residents usually allocate about $100 monthly.
Personal Care: Expenses near $50 per month, covering grooming and products.

These figures contribute to the overall cost landscape for Mississippi households.

Insurance Costs in Mississippi

Insurance coverage includes several essential types:

Health Insurance: Employer-sponsored plans cost about $122.33 monthly on average.
Auto Insurance: Annual premiums average $1,173.
Homeowners Insurance: Costs roughly $1,200 annually.
Renters Insurance: Average annual premium is $180.

Insurance expenses are necessary investments for financial security.

Miscellaneous Expenses in Mississippi

Additional costs that impact daily life include:

Entertainment Spending: Approximately $2,000 yearly, including events and activities.
Personal Care Services: About $600 annually for services like haircuts and grooming.
Miscellaneous Goods and Services: Estimated $500 per year for household needs and personal items.

These miscellaneous expenses add nuance to the overall financial picture.

Income and Salaries in Mississippi

Income trends highlight economic conditions for residents:

2010: Median household income approximately $40,000.
2015: Grew to $42,000.
2020: Reached about $45,000.
2023: Increased to $54,915.
2025: Projected at $56,000.

The rising income levels indicate positive economic progression over the years.

For those exploring careers or hiring in hospitality within Mississippi, reviewing the restaurant staff hiring strategies can be advantageous.

Additionally, understanding the local hospitality wages is important; see our insights on hospitality wages in 2025 for detailed analysis.

Comparison with National Averages

Mississippi's cost of living compares favorably against US national averages:

Overall Cost: Approximately 10% lower than the national average.
Housing: Significantly more affordable, about 26% below the national average.
Utilities: Roughly 11% less expensive.
Food: Costs about 4% below average.
Healthcare: Approximately 8% cheaper than national figures.
Transportation: Around 8% lower in cost.
Goods and Services: On par with national averages.

Mississippi's affordability is clear across many cost categories, an advantage for residents and newcomers.

Our Methodology for Mississippi Cost of Living Figures

We compile data from reliable sources including government reports, industry statistics and verified databases like Numbeo and the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Where exact numbers are unavailable, well-informed estimates are used to ensure comprehensive and accurate representations of cost of living elements.

Mississippi Cost of Living: Conclusion

Mississippi provides one of the most affordable living environments in the United States in 2025, benefiting from low housing, transportation and healthcare costs.

Its cost advantages relative to national averages make it attractive for families, retirees and those seeking economic value without sacrificing quality of life.

Understanding these detailed costs can help residents and prospective movers plan and budget effectively, ensuring a stable and comfortable lifestyle in Mississippi.

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