Golden, MS vs Lake, MS

Golden, MS and Lake, MS have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.8% difference in their overall index. Golden scores 63 while Lake scores 60 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Golden is $752/month compared to $739/month in Lake — a 2% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Lake is more affordable at $73,900 median vs $103,100.

Median household income in Golden is $48,889 compared to $37,813 in Lake (+29.3%). While Golden is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Golden spend roughly 18.5% of their income on rent, less than the 23.5% in Lake.

Climate-wise, Lake is notably warmer with an average of 63.2°F compared to 59.6°F in Golden. Golden receives more rainfall at 58.7" per year compared to 58.2" in Lake.