House to the blues, hearty meals, and fascinating historical past, Mississippi, also referred to as the Magnolia State, has one thing in retailer for everybody. Whereas Mississippi is filled with greatness, each place has its drawbacks. Whether or not you’re taking a look at properties on the market in Jackson, flats in Hattiesburg, or questioning if Mississippi is an efficient place to reside, we’ve obtained you lined. Listed here are ten execs and cons of residing in Mississippi earlier than making this state your new house.
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Fast Info about Mississippi
Inhabitants
2,961,279
Median house sale worth
$253,300
Common lease in Mississippi
$1,159
Largest cities in Mississippi
Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven
Is Mississippi place to reside?
Mississippi could be a excellent spot to reside for many who get pleasure from a slower tempo and reasonably priced residing. Housing prices are low, and also you’ll discover a whole lot of allure in small cities and tight-knit communities. The state’s wealthy historical past and pure magnificence additionally provide loads to discover. Nonetheless, the job market will be restricted, and there aren’t as many leisure or nightlife choices in comparison with states with bigger cities. When you’re not on the lookout for a bustling city way of life, although, this quiet surroundings is perhaps simply what you’re after.
1. Professional: You may get an reasonably priced larger training
Increased training is an costly funding anyplace within the U.S. Nonetheless, in comparison with different states, Mississippi has a decrease price of upper training, good for anybody trying to keep on finances. Mississippi is the fifth-cheapest state for a school diploma for out-of-state college students, and even much less for these already residing there. Group faculties and personal universities will be discovered all through the state and provide many choices and alternatives for anybody .
2. Con: Scorching warmth and humidity in the summertime
Through the summer time months, Mississippi ranks as one of many hottest and most humid locations within the U.S. Temperatures vary from mid to excessive 90s levels Fahrenheit together with excessive humidity ranges in Could by September.
3. Professional: There are various reasonably priced housing choices accessible in Mississippi
Mississippi provides a number of the most reasonably priced housing choices within the nation, making it a pretty selection for homebuyers and renters alike. The median house sale worth is $253,300, which is properly beneath the nationwide common, and you will discover even decrease costs in areas outdoors of main city areas. Together with reasonably priced properties on the market, the rental market can also be accessible. For instance, a two-bedroom house in Jackson averages $1,200, which is a major financial savings in comparison with pricier close by metro areas like New Orleans, the place the identical dimension house goes for round $1,850. Total, you’ll discover that there are many reasonably priced locations to reside in Mississippi, which is among the largest promoting factors for many who determine to maneuver right here.
4. Con: Vulnerable to thunderstorms, flooding, and hurricanes
Mississippi’s local weather and placement make it weak to extreme climate, notably within the southern a part of the state. Heavy rains can result in flooding, and intense thunderstorms usually deliver robust winds and huge hail that may injury properties and automobiles. The Gulf Coast can also be in danger for hurricanes and tropical storms, which may trigger widespread energy outages and property injury. Earlier than transferring to Mississippi, it’s vital to analysis flood zones, put money into storm-proofing measures, and have a plan for excessive climate occasions.
5. Professional: Mississippi is thought for its Southern hospitality and sense of group
Southern hospitality is greater than only a phrase in Mississippi – it’s a lifestyle. Locals are recognized for his or her heat, friendliness, and willingness to assist, whether or not it’s providing instructions, lending a hand, or sharing a meal. This welcoming spirit extends to group occasions and gatherings, the place individuals come collectively and construct lasting connections. It’s the sort of place the place neighbors genuinely look out for one another, making Mississippi a welcoming and tight-knit place to name house.
6. Con: Restricted job market in comparison with different states
Mississippi’s job market is smaller and fewer various in comparison with different states, with fewer alternatives in industries like tech and finance. Whereas manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and training are main employers, wages are typically decrease than the nationwide common. The median family revenue in Mississippi for 2025 is about $48,716, considerably decrease than the U.S. median family revenue of $69,243.76.
7. Professional: Mississippi is filled with historical past
Mississippi is wealthy in historical past, from its pivotal position within the Civil Rights Motion to its deep roots in blues music. You may discover historic landmarks, museums, and charming small cities that inform the story of the state’s previous. Whether or not it’s visiting the Nationwide Civil Rights Museum or strolling by the Mississippi Blues Path, you’ll study in regards to the previous nearly anyplace you go.
8. Con: Mississippi is a harmful state to drive in
Mississippi could be a harmful state to drive in because of its excessive variety of rural roads. Rural roads are 4 occasions extra harmful than roads within the metropolis, and Mississippi has lots of them.
9. Professional: There’s no scarcity of pure magnificence right here
The state is house to quite a few state parks, lakes, and rivers good for climbing, fishing, and boating. The Gulf Coast gives lovely seashores for leisure and watersports, whereas the Mississippi River provides scenic views and alternatives for river cruises. Take a stroll by the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at Tishomingo State Park, the place you’ll discover distinctive rock formations, scenic trails, and swinging bridges. When you’re on the lookout for a one-of-a-kind pure marvel, go to the Mississippi Petrified Forest close to Flora. This 36-million-year-old forest is full of large petrified logs, winding nature trails, and vibrant wildflowers. For a coastal escape, head to the Gulf Islands Nationwide Seashore, the place you’ll be able to discover white sand seashores, kayak by marshes, or spot dolphins alongside the shore. Whether or not you’re climbing, fishing, or just soaking within the views, Mississippi’s pure magnificence is in all places.
10. Con: Pesky bugs and allergy symptoms could also be a problem in the summertime
Mississippi’s heat, humid local weather brings loads of bugs and allergens, particularly in the summertime. Mosquitoes, ticks, and flies are frequent, particularly in areas with standing water like ponds or swamps. When you’re allergic to pollen, the humid local weather could make it robust to keep away from seasonal sneezing and itchy eyes. To maintain bugs at bay, be certain that to make use of bug spray and keep away from areas with stagnant water. For allergy symptoms, holding home windows closed throughout peak pollen occasions and utilizing air purifiers will help make your own home extra snug.
11. Professional: Mississippi is a musical state
From jazz, bluegrass, nation, gospel, and extra, the Magnolia State has a deeply rooted historical past in music that’s prevalent right this moment. The blues originated within the state’s southern plantations and was carried all through the Civil Rights Motion. Elvis Presley was born in Tupelo in northern Mississippi, the place he continued incorporating blues into his songs. You’ll discover nightclubs and museums devoted to the state’s ties with music all all through the realm.
12. Con: There’s flesh-eating micro organism in coastal waters
Though a uncommon prevalence, Mississippi is house to flesh-eating micro organism referred to as Vibrio vulnificus which will be life-threatening. Vibrio vulnificus lives in heat coastal waters, so when you have open wounds, together with cuts and scrapes, you must contemplate staying out of brackish water. You too can discover these micro organism in uncooked seafood or its juices, so that you’ll wish to be cautious when consuming these meals.
