JACKSON, Miss. ( WJTV ) – A new study indicates that Mississippi’s distinction as being the cheapest place to live may not be entirely true.

Americans have felt the price of many things rise in recent years. Unlike eating out , people cannot stop paying their bills to save money. Though energy costs in Mississippi are among the country’s lowest , many Mississippians struggle to keep the lights on. Data from Eden Emerald Hot Water indicates that Mississippians have the second highest portion of their paychecks going to pay bills.

The study, conducted by the hot water expert site, analyzed utility costs – including gas, electricity and water – across the United States. Below are the important figures and how much it takes away from the average Mississippian’s paycheck.

Mississippi

• Average annual total for bills: $7,004
• Average annual salary: $45,180
• Average cost as a percentage of salary: 15.5%

Eight of the 10 states that take the most money from people’s wallets for bills are in the South. Of the 10 states where bills make the smallest dent, one Southern state -Virginia- is on the list.

The large financial impact on Mississippians’ wallets is related to how much Mississippians are paid. The state’s median household income is the country’s lowest. Additionally, 18% of the state’s residents live in poverty. That is about 62% higher than the U.S. average of 11.1%.

Though essential expenses likely cannot go away, there are things one can do to lower them. For instance, visit energysavers.gov for ways to save money on utilities. Consider switching from a major carrier to a mobile virtual network operator to lower your phone bill. For those looking for a new car, calculate the differences in fuel consumption among different vehicles here .

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