Moving from Jackson to Houston (2026)

Houston has a COL index of 95 vs 79 for Jackson (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 20% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$56 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
79 โ†’ 95
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,000 โ†’ $1,350
per month
State tax
4.7% โ†’ None
income tax
COL difference
79 โ†’ 95
20% more expensive

Salary needed in Houston to match your Jackson lifestyle

Based on the 20% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in JacksonEquivalent in Houston
$40K$48,101
$50K$60,127
$60K$72,152
$75K$90,190
$80K$96,203
$100K$120,253
$120K$144,304
$150K$180,380

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$420/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Jackson vs Houston

ExpenseJacksonHouston
Monthly take-home$4,447$4,741
1BR rent$1,000$1,350
Groceries$346$357
Transport$38$90
Utilities$178$175
Internet$55$65
Left after essentials$2,830$2,704

Frequently asked questions

Is Houston cheaper than Jackson?

No. Houston has a cost of living index of 95 vs 79 for Jackson (100 = US average). That's about 20% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Jackson to Houston?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Houston run about $56/month more than Jackson. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Houston to match my Jackson lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Jackson, you'd need roughly $90,190/year in Houston. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only