Laurel, MS vs West Hattiesburg, MS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Laurel is 16.6% cheaper than West Hattiesburg. With a cost index of 66 vs 79, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Laurel to West Hattiesburg should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Laurel is $839/month compared to $1,014/month in West Hattiesburg — a 17% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Laurel is more affordable at $110,200 median vs $209,100.

Median household income in Laurel is $37,781 compared to $38,269 in West Hattiesburg (-1.3%). West Hattiesburg does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Laurel spend roughly 26.6% of their income on rent, less than the 31.8% in West Hattiesburg. The Laurel ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (66.5°F vs 66.5°F). West Hattiesburg receives more rainfall at 58.9" per year compared to 58.9" in Laurel.