Gulfport, MS vs Meridian, MS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Meridian is 15.2% cheaper than Gulfport. With a cost index of 66 vs 76, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Meridian to Gulfport should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Gulfport is $1,030/month compared to $865/month in Meridian — a 19% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Meridian is more affordable at $100,800 median vs $167,100.

Median household income in Gulfport is $46,044 compared to $34,657 in Meridian (+32.9%). While Gulfport is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Gulfport spend roughly 26.8% of their income on rent, less than the 30% in Meridian.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (68.3°F vs 65.9°F). Gulfport receives more rainfall at 62.8" per year compared to 57" in Meridian.