Jackson, MS
Population 149,827 · Mississippi
About Jackson, MS
Jackson is a major city located in Mississippi with a population of 149,827 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $43,238 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.7 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Jackson features a median home value of $108,200, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Jackson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,018, 12% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 75,103 total housing units, 49% are owner-occupied (30,091 units) and 51% are renter-occupied (31,865 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Jackson shows an unemployment rate of 9.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 26.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Jackson have an average one-way commute time of 20.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
28.6% of Jackson residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 1.4% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 1.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Jackson Ranks in Mississippi
Cost of Living in Jackson, MS
Compared to national averages, Jackson has a median household income of $43,238 (42% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $108,200, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,018 is 12% below the US average of $1,163. Within Mississippi, Jackson's income is 13% below the state average of $49,929, and home values are 14% below the state median of $125,705.
Why Live in Jackson, MS?
Jackson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $108,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,018/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($43,238) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Jackson provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Jackson has a population of 149,827 with a median age of 34.7 years. Compare Jackson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Mississippi.
Similar Cities Near Jackson
Cities in Mississippi with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gulfport | 72,533 | $46,044 | $167,100 | Compare |
| Southaven | 55,531 | $76,159 | $214,800 | Compare |
| Biloxi | 49,011 | $55,958 | $203,200 | Compare |
| Hattiesburg | 48,507 | $44,140 | $153,600 | Compare |
| Olive Branch | 46,538 | $98,421 | $269,900 | Compare |
| Tupelo | 37,825 | $66,314 | $201,300 | Compare |
| Meridian | 34,466 | $34,657 | $100,800 | Compare |
| Greenville | 28,833 | $36,297 | $100,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Mississippi
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Jackson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Jackson
What is the population of Jackson, MS?
The population of Jackson, MS is 149,827 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Mississippi.
What is the median household income in Jackson?
The median household income in Jackson, MS is $43,238 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Jackson?
The median home value in Jackson, MS is $108,200, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Jackson?
The median monthly rent in Jackson, MS is $1,018, which is 12% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Jackson?
The unemployment rate in Jackson, MS is 9.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Jackson, MS a good place to live?
Jackson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 149,827 and a median age of 34.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Jackson, MS?
28.6% of residents in Jackson aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Jackson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Jackson, MS: median home value is $108,200 (56% below national), median rent is $1,018/month, and median household income is $43,238. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Jackson?
The poverty rate in Jackson, MS is 26.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Jackson, MS?
Jackson's population is 1.4% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 81.5% two or more races. 1.5% of residents are foreign-born.