Cost of Living in Clarksdale, MS
Population 14,423 · Mississippi · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Clarksdale run well below national norms — a median of $35,210 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $84,000). At 10.2%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Geographically, Clarksdale is about 70 miles southwest of Memphis, the nearest large metro. Median home values run roughly 46% lower than Memphis' $157,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Clarksdale
The median home value in Clarksdale is $84,200 — 72% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $762/month, 42% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $35,210/year is 53% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 10.2%, above the national average of 4.8%. Mississippi's top state income tax rate is 4.7% and the combined sales tax is 7.1%. Overall, Clarksdale has a cost of living index of 40 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 60% 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 Clarksdale, MS?
Clarksdale has a cost index of 40 (100 = national average). It is 60% below the national average.
What is average rent in Clarksdale, MS?
The median gross rent in Clarksdale is $762 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Clarksdale?
The median home value in Clarksdale is $84,200 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Clarksdale?
The median household income in Clarksdale is $35,210 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Clarksdale, MS?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Clarksdale is 7.1%. The Mississippi state income tax top rate is 4.7%.
Is Clarksdale, MS affordable?
Yes, Clarksdale is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 40 — about 60% below the US national average of 100.
Clarksdale at a Glance
- Population
- 14,423
- Median Income
- $35,210
- Home Value
- $84,200
- Median Rent
- $762/mo
- Unemployment
- 10.2%
- Sales Tax
- 7.1%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Mississippi Rankings
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