Arkansas vs Mississippi: Which Is Better to Live In?
Arkansas ranks #48 of 50 overall and Mississippi #46 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 86.9 vs 87); Arkansas collects a similar share of income in taxes. Overall they are 1.8 points apart, too close to call: Arkansas leads 6 of 11 categories, Mississippi leads 2.
- Violent crime rate is 57% lower in Mississippi (227 vs. 532 in Arkansas).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 33% lower in Mississippi ($6,492 vs. $9,727 in Arkansas).
- Property crime rate is 23% lower in Mississippi (1,264 vs. 1,645 in Arkansas).
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -1.8 pts | 40.1#48 of 50 · D | 41.9#46 of 50 · D | -1.8 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 86.9#1 of 50 | 87#2 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$8,596 · US -$11,758 | +$8,363#4 of 50 | +$16,959#1 of 50 | -$8,596 | -$11,758 | MS |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$29,658 (+15%) · US $368,697 | $227,264#5 of 50 | $197,606#2 of 50 | +$29,658+15% | $368,697 | MS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.45 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#23 of 50 | 9.06%#32 of 50 | -0.45 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +305 (+134%) · US 328 | 532#48 of 50 | 227#15 of 50 | +305+134% | 328 | MS |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,979 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $62,106#47 of 50 | $59,127#50 of 50 | +$2,979+5% | $80,903 | AR |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#15 of 50 | 88.9%#12 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 85.62% | MS |
| Life expectancyGap +1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.9#43 of 50 | 72.6#49 of 50 | +1.3 yrs | 76.9 | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,394 · US -33 | +5,269#14 of 50 | -3,125#37 of 50 | +8,394 | -33 | AR |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Arkansas or Mississippi better to live in?
Arkansas scores 40.1 and Mississippi scores 41.9 out of 100, a 1.8-point gap this site treats as even. Arkansas leads 6 of 11 categories, Mississippi leads 2, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -1.7 | 15% | 28.7#45 · D | 30.4#43 · D | -1.7 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -30.1 | 12% | 48.9#47 · D | 79.0#14 · B+ | -30.1 pts | MS |
| Health12% of scoregap +9.9 | 12% | 28.0#47 · D | 18.1#50 · F | +9.9 pts | AR |
| Education12% of scoregap -13.6 | 12% | 49.3#40 · C | 62.9#22 · B | -13.6 pts | MS |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -2.2 | 10% | 89.7#2 · A+ | 91.9#1 · A+ | -2.2 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +12.4 | 8% | 56.2#33 · C+ | 43.8#43 · D | +12.4 pts | AR |
| Growth7% of scoregap +14.9 | 7% | 45.8#17 · B+ | 30.9#35 · C | +14.9 pts | AR |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +13.3 | 7% | 42.9#41 · C | 29.6#50 · F | +13.3 pts | AR |
| Livability7% of scoregap +7.3 | 7% | 24.8#40 · C | 17.5#50 · F | +7.3 pts | AR |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap 0 | 6% | 14.7#36 · C | 14.7#35 · C | 0 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap +3.1 | 4% | 25.8#45 · D | 22.7#48 · D | +3.1 pts | AR |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Arkansas cheaper than Mississippi?
Arkansas and Mississippi cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 86.9 vs 87 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $8,596 more a year in Mississippi after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 86.9#1 of 50 | 87#2 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.6 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 93.6#1 of 50 | 96.2#20 of 50 | -2.6 pts-3% | 100 | AR |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.19¢ (-8%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.84¢/kWh#5 of 50 | 14.03¢/kWh#18 of 50 | -1.19¢-8% | 17.84¢/kWh | AR |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.61 (+16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.25/Mcf#43 of 50 | $16.64/Mcf#30 of 50 | +$2.61+16% | $15.83/Mcf | MS |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.02 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.92/gal#5 of 50 | $2.90/gal#3 of 50 | +$0.02+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,235 (+50%) · US $15,633 | $9,727#5 of 50 | $6,492#1 of 50 | +$3,235+50% | $15,633 | MS |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$1,211 | +$37,972costs $37,028 | +$39,183costs $35,817 | -$1,211 | MS |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$1,759 | +$31,290costs $43,710 | +$33,049costs $41,951 | -$1,759 | MS |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$8,596 | +$8,363costs $66,637 | +$16,959costs $58,041 | -$8,596 | MS |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$1,568 | +$43,012costs $31,987 | +$44,580costs $30,419 | -$1,568 | MS |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$1,639 | $15,131 | $13,492 | +$1,639 | MS |
| ChildcareGap +$6,470 | $19,454 | $12,984 | +$6,470 | MS |
| UtilitiesGap -$5 | $4,171 | $4,176 | -$5 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$293 | $10,542 | $10,835 | -$293 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$63 | $9,177 | $9,114 | +$63 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$722 | $8,162 | $7,440 | +$722 | MS |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Arkansas or Mississippi?
Arkansas and Mississippi collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.61% vs 9.06%. Arkansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Mississippi has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.45 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#23 of 50 | 9.06%#32 of 50 | -0.45 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.5 pts · US 5.46% | 3.9%#14 of 50 | 4.4%#18 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 5.46% | AR |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.17 pts · US 1.02% | 0.59%#14 of 50 | 0.76%#19 of 50 | -0.17 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.4 pts · US 6.66% | 9.46%#47 of 50 | 7.06%#28 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 6.66% | MS |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Arkansas or Mississippi?
Homes cost 15% more in Arkansas: a typical home value of $227,264 in Arkansas vs $197,606 in Mississippi. Buying the typical home takes about $61,092 of income in Arkansas and $55,591 in Mississippi; the median household earns $62,106 and $59,127.
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$29,658 (+15%) · US $368,697 | $227,264#5 of 50 | $197,606#2 of 50 | +$29,658+15% | $368,697 | MS |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.3 pts · US +1.2% | +3.6%#10 of 50 | +2.3%#24 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.2% | AR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$241 (-16%) · US $1,948 | $1,265#4 of 50 | $1,506#14 of 50 | -$241-16% | $1,948 | AR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$5,501 (+10%) · US $100,006 | $61,092#3 of 50 | $55,591#2 of 50 | +$5,501+10% | $100,006 | MS |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+12%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#16 of 50 | 3.3x#4 of 50 | +0.4x+12% | 4.6x | MS |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| AR | MS | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,169 | $1,017 |
| Income needed vs. median | -2% | -6% |
| Five-year change | +21.2% | +12.5% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Little Rock | Jackson |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Arkansas or Mississippi?
Arkansas pays more: median household income $62,106 vs $59,127, with unemployment at 4.1% in Arkansas and 3.8% in Mississippi. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arkansas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and Mississippi's in 0.
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$2,979 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $62,106#47 of 50 | $59,127#50 of 50 | +$2,979+5% | $80,903 | AR |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.1%#29 of 50 | 3.8%#22 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$9,416 (+24%) · US $64,333 | $48,298#48 of 50 | $38,882#50 of 50 | +$9,416+24% | $64,333 | AR |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.5%#38 of 50 | +0.5%#47 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | AR |
| Population growthGap +0.46 pts · US +0.51% | +0.6%#19 of 50 | +0.14%#40 of 50 | +0.46 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | AR | MS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accountants & Auditors | $77,756$67,648 in Little Rock | $68,097$59,244 in Jackson | AR |
| Software Developers | $127,376$110,817 in Little Rock | $119,353$103,837 in Jackson | AR |
| General & Operations Managers | $100,124$87,108 in Little Rock | $92,276$80,280 in Jackson | AR |
| Registered Nurses | $82,380$71,671 in Little Rock | $74,982$65,234 in Jackson | AR |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $230,893$200,877 in Little Rock | $238,010$207,069 in Jackson | Even |
| Lawyers | $134,605$117,106 in Little Rock | $128,178$111,515 in Jackson | AR |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $70,618$61,438 in Little Rock | $65,301$56,812 in Jackson | AR |
| Mental Health Counselors | $52,176$45,393 in Little Rock | $47,391$41,230 in Jackson | AR |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,684$53,665 in Little Rock | $57,247$49,805 in Jackson | AR |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,972$47,826 in Little Rock | $50,851$44,240 in Jackson | AR |
| Electricians | $58,521$50,913 in Little Rock | $54,908$47,770 in Jackson | AR |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,876$28,602 in Little Rock | $29,298$25,489 in Jackson | AR |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $67,807$58,992 in Little Rock | $64,775$56,354 in Jackson | AR |
| Construction Laborers | $40,714$35,421 in Little Rock | $37,998$33,058 in Jackson | AR |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,602$39,674 in Little Rock | $42,891$37,315 in Jackson | AR |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $92,963$80,878 in Little Rock | $90,516$78,749 in Jackson | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $49,372$42,954 in Little Rock | $48,469$42,168 in Jackson | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $52,449$45,631 in Little Rock | $52,748$45,891 in Jackson | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $58,453$50,854 in Little Rock | $58,220$50,651 in Jackson | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $87,640$76,247 in Little Rock | $87,501$76,126 in Jackson | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Arkansas safer than Mississippi?
Mississippi is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 532 in Arkansas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,645 and 1,264 per 100,000.
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +305 (+134%) · US 328 | 532#48 of 50 | 227#15 of 50 | +305+134% | 328 | MS |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +381 (+30%) · US 1,535 | 1,645#35 of 50 | 1,264#15 of 50 | +381+30% | 1,535 | MS |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Bella Vista, AR167 violent per 100K
- Madison, MS21 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Arkansas or Mississippi?
Mississippi scores higher for education (#22 of 50 vs #40), with high school graduation rates of 88.2% and 88.9%. Arkansas scores higher for health (#47 vs #50); life expectancy is 73.9 years in Arkansas and 72.6 in Mississippi.
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 266#43 of 50 | 269#35 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 255#37 of 50 | 254#41 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#15 of 50 | 88.9%#12 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 85.62% | MS |
| Life expectancyGap +1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.9#43 of 50 | 72.6#49 of 50 | +1.3 yrs | 76.9 | AR |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 38.9%#47 of 50 | 40.4%#49 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 34.03% | AR |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.3 pts · US 7.6% | 9.4%#39 of 50 | 9.7%#41 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 42#38 of 50 | 43#43 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Benton, AReducation score 93.4
- Pearl, MSeducation score 96
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Arkansas #40, Mississippi #22. Health: Arkansas #47, Mississippi #50.
Are more people moving from Arkansas to Mississippi, or from Mississippi to Arkansas?
793 households moved from Arkansas to Mississippi and 1,033 moved from Mississippi to Arkansas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 240 households for Arkansas. Movers to Mississippi reported an average income of $49,779; movers to Arkansas reported $50,218. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,010 people (±2,899) moving from Arkansas to Mississippi and 2,005 (±1,159) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +6,639 (+22%) | 36,997#33 of 50 | 30,358#37 of 50 | +6,639+22% | AR |
| Households moving outIRSGap -1,755 (-5%) | 31,728#16 of 50 | 33,483#17 of 50 | -1,755-5% | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,394 | +5,269#14 of 50 | -3,125#37 of 50 | +8,394 | AR |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.8 | +1.7#13 of 50 | -1.1#40 of 50 | +2.8 | AR |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,104 (+11%) | $62,982#42 of 50 | $56,878#49 of 50 | +$6,104+11% | AR |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,786 (+11%) | $59,337#49 of 50 | $53,551#50 of 50 | +$5,786+11% | AR |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.0 | +4.7#8 of 50 | -0.3#36 of 50 | +5.0 | AR |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Arkansas or Mississippi?
Arkansas is the better fit for young professionals and small business; Mississippi is the better fit for families; 3 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +13 places | #44score 49.1 | #31score 61.9 | +13 places | MS |
| RetireesGap -3 places | #45score 48.5 | #48score 44.6 | -3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -2 places | #39score 45.8 | #41score 43.2 | -2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -8 places | #38score 44.6 | #46score 37.9 | -8 places | AR |
| Small BusinessGap -6 places | #35score 48.5 | #41score 41.3 | -6 places | AR |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +3 places | #49score 23.3 | #46score 26.6 | +3 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMississippi (#31 vs #44)
- RetireesEven (#45 vs #48)
- Remote WorkersEven (#39 vs #41)
- Young ProfessionalsArkansas (#38 vs #46)
- Small BusinessArkansas (#35 vs #41)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#49 vs #46)
Which cities stand out in Arkansas and Mississippi?
Arkansas has 20 tracked cities and Mississippi has 20; the largest are Little Rock and Jackson. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Little Rock203,436 people | Jackson146,631 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bentonvillescore 68.2 | Madisonscore 68.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bella Vista167 violent per 100K | Madison21 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pine Bluffcost index 83 | Tupelocost index 83.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | West Memphiswalkability 12.3 of 20 | Jacksonwalkability 10.7 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | West Memphiscounty median AQI 39 | Meridiancounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Benton93.4% graduation rate | Pearl96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bentonvillemedian income $112,792 | Madisonmedian income $119,338 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Bella Vista+3.7% growth | Gulfport+2.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Arkansas and Mississippi compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Arkansas carries AA credit rating and Mississippi AA-.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +7 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#37 of 50 | 5%#49 of 50 | +7 pts | 29.34% | AR |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +3.2 (+9%) · US 29.6 | 39.6#38 of 50 | 36.4#33 of 50 | +3.2+9% | 29.6 | MS |
| Public land shareGap +4 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#22 of 50 | 6.5%#28 of 50 | +4 pts | 17.16% | AR |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.7 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#13 of 50 | 26.4 min#32 of 50 | -3.7 min | 25.2 min | AR |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#49 of 50 | 0.3%#48 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.4 pts · US 12.28% | 8.6%#44 of 50 | 6.2%#50 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 12.28% | AR |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.5 pts · US 92.67% | 90.8%#43 of 50 | 88.3%#50 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 92.67% | AR |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#40 of 50 | 85#44 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | AR |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.9 pts · US 12.39% | 6.7%#42 of 50 | 8.6%#34 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 12.39% | MS |
| Pension funded ratioGap +18 pts · US 74.3% | 78%#19 of 50 | 60%#44 of 50 | +18 pts | 74.3% | AR |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,320 (-42%) · US $3,506 | $1,820#7 of 50 | $3,140#30 of 50 | -$1,320-42% | $3,506 | AR |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.5 pts · US +4.66% | +6.3%#14 of 50 | +3.8%#33 of 50 | +2.5 pts | +4.66% | AR |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Arkansas AA, Mississippi AA-), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Arkansas vs Mississippi: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Arkansas is ahead on 24 of 51, Mississippi on 14, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ArkansasAR | MississippiMS | GapAR−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +160,631 (+5%) · US 6.8 million | 3.1 million#33 of 50 | 3 million#35 of 50 | +160,631+5% | 6.8 million | AR |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,979 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $62,106#47 of 50 | $59,127#50 of 50 | +$2,979+5% | $80,903 | AR |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.1%#29 of 50 | 3.8%#22 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.46 pts · US +0.51% | +0.6%#19 of 50 | +0.14%#40 of 50 | +0.46 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$9,416 (+24%) · US $64,333 | $48,298#48 of 50 | $38,882#50 of 50 | +$9,416+24% | $64,333 | AR |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.5%#38 of 50 | +0.5%#47 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | AR |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +305 (+134%) · US 328 | 532#48 of 50 | 227#15 of 50 | +305+134% | 328 | MS |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +381 (+30%) · US 1,535 | 1,645#35 of 50 | 1,264#15 of 50 | +381+30% | 1,535 | MS |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#15 of 50 | 88.9%#12 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 85.62% | MS |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -9 · US 237 | 230#47 of 50 | 239#16 of 50 | -9 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 266#43 of 50 | 269#35 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -9 · US 214 | 210#41 of 50 | 219#9 of 50 | -9 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 255#37 of 50 | 254#41 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.9#43 of 50 | 72.6#49 of 50 | +1.3 yrs | 76.9 | AR |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 38.9%#47 of 50 | 40.4%#49 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 34.03% | AR |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.3 pts · US 7.6% | 9.4%#39 of 50 | 9.7%#41 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$29,658 (+15%) · US $368,697 | $227,264#5 of 50 | $197,606#2 of 50 | +$29,658+15% | $368,697 | MS |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.3 pts · US +1.2% | +3.6%#10 of 50 | +2.3%#24 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.2% | AR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$241 (-16%) · US $1,948 | $1,265#4 of 50 | $1,506#14 of 50 | -$241-16% | $1,948 | AR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$5,501 (+10%) · US $100,006 | $61,092#3 of 50 | $55,591#2 of 50 | +$5,501+10% | $100,006 | MS |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 86.9#1 of 50 | 87#2 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+12%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#16 of 50 | 3.3x#4 of 50 | +0.4x+12% | 4.6x | MS |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.19¢ (-8%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.84¢/kWh#5 of 50 | 14.03¢/kWh#18 of 50 | -1.19¢-8% | 17.84¢/kWh | AR |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.61 (+16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.25/Mcf#43 of 50 | $16.64/Mcf#30 of 50 | +$2.61+16% | $15.83/Mcf | MS |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.02 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.92/gal#5 of 50 | $2.90/gal#3 of 50 | +$0.02+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.6 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 93.6#1 of 50 | 96.2#20 of 50 | -2.6 pts-3% | 100 | AR |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,235 (+50%) · US $15,633 | $9,727#5 of 50 | $6,492#1 of 50 | +$3,235+50% | $15,633 | MS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.45 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#23 of 50 | 9.06%#32 of 50 | -0.45 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.5 pts · US 5.46% | 3.9%#14 of 50 | 4.4%#18 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 5.46% | AR |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.17 pts · US 1.02% | 0.59%#14 of 50 | 0.76%#19 of 50 | -0.17 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.4 pts · US 6.66% | 9.46%#47 of 50 | 7.06%#28 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 6.66% | MS |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#40 of 50 | 85#44 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | AR |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.9 pts · US 12.39% | 6.7%#42 of 50 | 8.6%#34 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 12.39% | MS |
| Pension funded ratioGap +18 pts · US 74.3% | 78%#19 of 50 | 60%#44 of 50 | +18 pts | 74.3% | AR |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,320 (-42%) · US $3,506 | $1,820#7 of 50 | $3,140#30 of 50 | -$1,320-42% | $3,506 | AR |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.5 pts · US +4.66% | +6.3%#14 of 50 | +3.8%#33 of 50 | +2.5 pts | +4.66% | AR |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 42#38 of 50 | 43#43 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +7 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#37 of 50 | 5%#49 of 50 | +7 pts | 29.34% | AR |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +3.2 (+9%) · US 29.6 | 39.6#38 of 50 | 36.4#33 of 50 | +3.2+9% | 29.6 | MS |
| Public land shareGap +4 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#22 of 50 | 6.5%#28 of 50 | +4 pts | 17.16% | AR |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.7 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#13 of 50 | 26.4 min#32 of 50 | -3.7 min | 25.2 min | AR |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#49 of 50 | 0.3%#48 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.4 pts · US 12.28% | 8.6%#44 of 50 | 6.2%#50 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 12.28% | AR |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.5 pts · US 92.67% | 90.8%#43 of 50 | 88.3%#50 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 92.67% | AR |
| Households moving inIRSGap +6,639 (+22%) · US 78,682 | 36,997#33 of 50 | 30,358#37 of 50 | +6,639+22% | 78,682 | AR |
| Households moving outIRSGap -1,755 (-5%) · US 78,715 | 31,728#16 of 50 | 33,483#17 of 50 | -1,755-5% | 78,715 | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,394 · US -33 | +5,269#14 of 50 | -3,125#37 of 50 | +8,394 | -33 | AR |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.8 · US +0.4 | +1.7#13 of 50 | -1.1#40 of 50 | +2.8 | +0.4 | AR |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,104 (+11%) · US $77,690 | $62,982#42 of 50 | $56,878#49 of 50 | +$6,104+11% | $77,690 | AR |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,786 (+11%) · US $77,024 | $59,337#49 of 50 | $53,551#50 of 50 | +$5,786+11% | $77,024 | AR |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.0 · US +1.1 | +4.7#8 of 50 | -0.3#36 of 50 | +5.0 | +1.1 | AR |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$8,596 · US -$11,758 | +$8,363#4 of 50 | +$16,959#1 of 50 | -$8,596 | -$11,758 | MS |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$1,211 · US +$31,418 | +$37,972#4 of 50 | +$39,183#3 of 50 | -$1,211 | +$31,418 | MS |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$1,568 · US +$35,970 | +$43,012#4 of 50 | +$44,580#2 of 50 | -$1,568 | +$35,970 | MS |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Arkansas and Mississippi numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Arkansas (40.1, #48) and Mississippi (41.9, #46) are within 2 composite points. Arkansas leads 6 categories, Mississippi leads 2, and 3 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 86.9 in Arkansas and 87 in Mississippi, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $227,264 and $197,606. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$8,363 a year after typical costs in Arkansas and +$16,959 in Mississippi.
Tax burdens are close
Arkansas collects 8.61% of income in state and local taxes (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Mississippi collects 9.06% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Arkansas pays more
Median household income is $62,106 in Arkansas and $59,127 in Mississippi, with unemployment at 4.1% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 532 per 100,000 residents in Arkansas and 227 in Mississippi.
Moves between the two run about even
5,010 people moved from Arkansas to Mississippi and 2,005 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Mississippi is the better fit for families
For families, Arkansas ranks #44 of 50 and Mississippi #31; for retirees, Arkansas ranks #45 and Mississippi #48.
Arkansas vs Mississippi: frequently asked questions
Is Arkansas or Mississippi better to live in?
Arkansas ranks #48 of 50 overall and Mississippi #46 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 86.9 vs 87); Arkansas collects a similar share of income in taxes. Overall they are 1.8 points apart, too close to call: Arkansas leads 6 of 11 categories, Mississippi leads 2.
Is Arkansas cheaper than Mississippi?
Arkansas and Mississippi cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 86.9 vs 87 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have +$8,363 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Arkansas, and +$16,959 in Mississippi. The typical home value is $227,264 in Arkansas and $197,606 in Mississippi.
Which has lower taxes, Arkansas or Mississippi?
Arkansas and Mississippi have similar tax burdens: 8.61% vs 9.06% of income in state and local taxes. Arkansas's top income tax rate is 3.9%, its effective property tax rate 0.59% and its combined sales tax 9.46%; Mississippi's are 4.4%, 0.76% and 7.06%.
Is Arkansas safer than Mississippi?
Mississippi is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 532 in Arkansas, per the FBI. Arkansas ranks #48 of 50 for violent crime and Mississippi #15. Property crime is 1,645 per 100,000 in Arkansas and 1,264 in Mississippi. The safest tracked cities are Bella Vista, AR, and Madison, MS.
Are homes more expensive in Arkansas or Mississippi?
Homes are 15% more expensive in Arkansas: the typical home value is $227,264 in Arkansas and $197,606 in Mississippi. Buying the typical home takes about $61,092 of household income in Arkansas and $55,591 in Mississippi, against median incomes of $62,106 and $59,127.
Do people earn more in Arkansas or Mississippi?
Arkansas pays more: median household income is $62,106 vs $59,127 in Mississippi, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.1% in Arkansas and 3.8% in Mississippi. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arkansas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and Mississippi's in 0, with 6 even.
Are more people moving from Arkansas to Mississippi or from Mississippi to Arkansas?
793 households moved from Arkansas to Mississippi and 1,033 moved from Mississippi to Arkansas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 240 households for Arkansas. Movers to Mississippi reported an average income of $49,779; movers to Arkansas reported $50,218. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,010 people (±2,899) moving from Arkansas to Mississippi and 2,005 (±1,159) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Arkansas or Mississippi?
Arkansas and Mississippi are close for retirees: #45 and #48 of 50 on the retiree index. Arkansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Mississippi has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$43,012 left after typical costs in Arkansas and +$44,580 in Mississippi.
Which is better for families, Arkansas or Mississippi?
Mississippi is the better fit for families: #31 of 50 on the families index vs #44 for Arkansas. Center-based infant care costs $9,727 a year in Arkansas and $6,492 in Mississippi. High school graduation rates are 88.2% and 88.9%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$8,363 after typical costs in Arkansas and +$16,959 in Mississippi.
Which has better schools, Arkansas or Mississippi?
Mississippi scores higher for education: #22 of 50 vs #40 for Arkansas. Eighth graders average 266 in NAEP math in Arkansas and 269 in Mississippi. High school graduation rates are 88.2% in Arkansas and 88.9% in Mississippi, and the education category scores are 49.3 and 62.9 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Benton and Pearl have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Arkansas vs Mississippi.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states.