Old Jefferson, LA vs Ruston, LA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Ruston is 19.5% cheaper than Old Jefferson. With a cost index of 73 vs 87, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Ruston to Old Jefferson should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Old Jefferson is $1,174/month compared to $819/month in Ruston — a 43% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ruston is more affordable at $226,700 median vs $235,900.

Median household income in Old Jefferson is $85,466 compared to $32,765 in Ruston (+160.8%). While Old Jefferson is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Old Jefferson spend roughly 16.5% of their income on rent, less than the 30% in Ruston.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (68.5°F vs 65.7°F). Old Jefferson receives more rainfall at 61.9" per year compared to 55.1" in Ruston.