Hernando, MS vs West Hattiesburg, MS

West Hattiesburg is moderately more affordable than Hernando, with a 14.4% lower cost of living index. Hernando scores 91 compared to 79 for West Hattiesburg, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Hernando can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Hernando is $1,163/month compared to $1,014/month in West Hattiesburg — a 15% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: West Hattiesburg is more affordable at $209,100 median vs $282,200.

Median household income in Hernando is $71,451 compared to $38,269 in West Hattiesburg (+86.7%). While Hernando is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Hernando spend roughly 19.5% of their income on rent, less than the 31.8% in West Hattiesburg. The Hernando ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, West Hattiesburg is notably warmer with an average of 66.5°F compared to 63.4°F in Hernando. West Hattiesburg receives more rainfall at 58.9" per year compared to 54.9" in Hernando.