Cost of Living in Jackson, MI
Population 31,206 · Michigan · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Jackson's median household income of $42,848 is a meaningful share below the national figure, which shapes most of the downstream economic indicators — from housing affordability to the share of residents living below the poverty line (26% here). At 10.8%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Jackson is about 35 miles south of Lansing, the nearest large metro — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 21% lower than Lansing's $119,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Jackson
The median home value in Jackson is $94,700 — 69% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $874/month, 33% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $42,848/year is 43% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 10.8%, above the national average of 4.8%. Michigan's top state income tax rate is 4.3% and the combined sales tax is 6.0%. Overall, Jackson has a cost of living index of 45 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 55% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Jackson, MI?
Jackson has a cost index of 45 (100 = national average). It is 55% below the national average.
What is average rent in Jackson, MI?
The median gross rent in Jackson is $874 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Jackson?
The median home value in Jackson is $94,700 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Jackson?
The median household income in Jackson is $42,848 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Jackson, MI?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Jackson is 6.0%. The Michigan state income tax top rate is 4.3%.
Is Jackson, MI affordable?
Yes, Jackson is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 45 — about 55% below the US national average of 100.
Jackson at a Glance
- Population
- 31,206
- Median Income
- $42,848
- Home Value
- $94,700
- Median Rent
- $874/mo
- Unemployment
- 10.8%
- Sales Tax
- 6.0%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Michigan Rankings
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