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Central, SC vs Jackson, SC

81
Central
South Carolina
VS
+26.2%
64
Jackson
South Carolina

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Jackson is 26.2% cheaper than Central. With a cost index of 64 vs 81, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Jackson to Central should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Central is $973/month compared to $540/month in Jackson — a 80% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Jackson is more affordable at $192,000 median vs $228,500.

Median household income in Central is $58,262 compared to $37,067 in Jackson (+57.2%). While Central is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Central spend roughly 20% of their income on rent, more than the 17.5% in Jackson.

Climate-wise, Jackson is notably warmer with an average of 65.4°F compared to 61.4°F in Central. Central receives more rainfall at 49" per year compared to 44.1" in Jackson.

Income & Cost

Cost of Living Index
Central
81
Jackson
64
21% cheaper
Median Household Income
Central
$58,262
36% higher
Jackson
$37,067

Housing

Median Rent
Central
$973
Jackson
$540
45% cheaper
Median Home Value
Central
$228,500
Jackson
$192,000
16% cheaper
Population
Central
5,299
Jackson
1,782

Salary Equivalency Calculator

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Everyday Prices

BLS Average Prices by metro area

Gasoline (regular)
Central $2.94
Jackson $2.95
US $3.07
🥚
Eggs (grade A, large)
Central $2.40
Jackson $2.41
US $2.50
🥛
Milk (whole)
Central $3.86
Jackson $3.87
US $4.03
🍞
Bread (white)
Central $1.78
Jackson $1.78
US $1.85
🍗
Chicken breast
Central $3.97
Jackson $3.98
US $4.14
Electricity
Central $0.16
Jackson $0.17
US $0.19

Climate

NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)

Avg Temp
Central 61.4°F
Jackson 65.4°F
Summer High
Central 89°F
Jackson 94°F
Winter Low
Central 34°F
Jackson 35°F
Rainfall
Central 49"
Jackson 44.1"
Rainy Days
Central 127d
Jackson 107d