Cost of Living in Magnolia, MS

With a cost of living index of 63, Magnolia, MS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 37% cheaper than the national average and 7% below the Mississippi state average of 71. Magnolia is a small community of 3,264 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Magnolia's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $890 (33% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $60,000 (80% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.6x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Magnolia is $37,447, which is 50% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 29% of household income on rent. This is near the 30% threshold that financial experts generally consider the upper limit of affordability. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Magnolia. The area sees an average annual temperature of 66.2°F, with summers averaging 80°F and winters around 51°F. Annual rainfall totals 60.6 inches spread over roughly 121 days.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.