Itta Bena, MS vs Merigold, MS
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Itta Bena is 23% cheaper than Merigold. With a cost index of 56 vs 73, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Itta Bena to Merigold should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Itta Bena is $548/month compared to $1,083/month in Merigold — a 49% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Itta Bena is more affordable at $100,200 median vs $107,600.
Median household income in Itta Bena is $32,898 compared to $53,558 in Merigold (-38.6%). While Merigold is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Itta Bena spend roughly 20% of their income on rent, less than the 24.3% in Merigold.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (64°F vs 64°F). Itta Bena receives more rainfall at 51.8" per year compared to 49" in Merigold.
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)