Free comparison
Moving from Mississippi to Iowa
A side-by-side comparison drawn from BLS, BEA, Census, FBI, and NOAA. Cheapest housing in US, deep South culture, low incomes. vs. Corn country, low unemployment, surprisingly arts-rich.
Mississippi
Capital: Jackson
Median household income $52,985 · winter low 36°F · 213 sunny days
Cheapest housing in US, deep South culture, low incomes.
Iowa
Capital: Des Moines
Median household income $70,571 · winter low 13°F · 200 sunny days
Corn country, low unemployment, surprisingly arts-rich.
Iowa has an overall price level 87.8 (US avg = 100). Housing dominates the difference.
Summer high 85°F · Winter low 13°F · 200 sunny days/yr.
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See the full comparisonFrequently asked
Is it cheaper to live in Iowa than Mississippi?
Iowa's overall price level is roughly 90 (US avg = 100), vs about 86.4 for Mississippi — based on BEA Regional Price Parities. Housing is the dominant driver of the difference. Run a comparison for the full, current breakdown.
What's the income tax difference?
Mississippi tops out at 4% income tax. Iowa tops out at 3.8%.
How long do I have to register my vehicle in Iowa?
Most Iowa residents must register a vehicle within 30-60 days of moving. Check the piomover report for state-specific deadlines.