Marion, MS vs Pontotoc, MS
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Pontotoc is 16.8% cheaper than Marion. With a cost index of 69 vs 80, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Pontotoc to Marion should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Marion is $1,074/month compared to $830/month in Pontotoc — a 29% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Pontotoc is more affordable at $144,300 median vs $194,800.
Median household income in Marion is $57,292 compared to $50,230 in Pontotoc (+14.1%). The higher salaries in Marion partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Marion spend roughly 22.5% of their income on rent, more than the 19.8% in Pontotoc.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (65.9°F vs 63.6°F). Pontotoc receives more rainfall at 57.7" per year compared to 57" in Marion.
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Housing
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)