Meridian, MS vs Southaven, MS

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Meridian is 27.5% cheaper than Southaven. With a cost index of 66 vs 91, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Meridian to Southaven should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Meridian is $865/month compared to $1,361/month in Southaven — a 36% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Meridian is more affordable at $100,800 median vs $214,800.

Median household income in Meridian is $34,657 compared to $76,159 in Southaven (-54.5%). While Southaven is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Meridian spend roughly 30% of their income on rent, more than the 21.4% in Southaven.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (65.9°F vs 63.4°F). Meridian receives more rainfall at 57" per year compared to 54.9" in Southaven.