25. Mississippi
Annual median wage: $35,600
Cost of living index: 86
Employment: 990
Mississippi is the cheapest state to live in America. Everything is generally affordable, so even the most meager wages could really go a long way here. That’s not to say it is because they are far behind in terms of economy and development. There are many up and coming cities, too. Jackson also has plenty of restaurants, hotels, and even cruise ships that all need chefs and head cooks.