Long Beach, MS vs Meridian, MS
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Meridian is 28.2% cheaper than Long Beach. With a cost index of 66 vs 85, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Meridian to Long Beach should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Long Beach is $1,209/month compared to $865/month in Meridian — a 40% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Meridian is more affordable at $100,800 median vs $205,300.
Median household income in Long Beach is $71,121 compared to $34,657 in Meridian (+105.2%). While Long Beach is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Long Beach spend roughly 20.4% 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). Long Beach receives more rainfall at 62.8" per year compared to 57" in Meridian.
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NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)