12 Execs and Cons of Residing in Mississippi

Dwelling 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 stuffed with greatness, each place has its drawbacks. Whether or not you’re houses on the market in Jackson, flats in Hattiesburg, or questioning if Mississippi is an effective place to stay, we’ve bought you lined. Listed here are ten execs and cons of residing in Mississippi earlier than making this state your new residence.

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Fast Details about Mississippi

Inhabitants
2,961,279

Median residence sale worth
$253,300

Common hire in Mississippi
$1,159

Largest cities in Mississippi
Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven

Is Mississippi a great place to stay?

Mississippi could be a excellent place to stay for many who take pleasure in a slower tempo and inexpensive residing. Housing prices are low, and also you’ll discover a variety 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 might be restricted, and there aren’t as many leisure or nightlife choices in comparison with states with bigger cities. In the event you’re not on the lookout for a bustling city life-style, although, this quiet atmosphere may be simply what you’re after.

1. Professional: You may get an inexpensive greater training 

Larger training is an costly funding wherever within the U.S. Nonetheless, in comparison with different states, Mississippi has a decrease value of upper training, good for anybody trying to keep on price range. Mississippi is the fifth-cheapest state for a university diploma for out-of-state college students, and even much less for these already residing there. Group faculties and personal universities might 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 Might via September.

3. Professional: There are various inexpensive housing choices out there in Mississippi

Mississippi provides a few of the most inexpensive housing choices within the nation, making it a beautiful selection for homebuyers and renters alike. The median residence sale worth is $253,300, which is effectively under the nationwide common, and yow will discover even decrease costs in areas exterior of main city areas. Together with inexpensive houses on the market, the rental market can also be accessible. For instance, a two-bedroom house in Jackson averages $1,200, which is a big 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 inexpensive locations to stay in Mississippi, which is among the greatest promoting factors for many who determine to maneuver right here.

4. Con: Susceptible to thunderstorms, flooding, and hurricanes

Mississippi’s local weather and placement make it susceptible to extreme climate, notably within the southern a part of the state. Heavy rains can result in flooding, and intense thunderstorms usually convey sturdy winds and enormous hail that may injury houses and autos. The Gulf Coast can also be in danger for hurricanes and tropical storms, which might trigger widespread energy outages and property injury. Earlier than transferring to Mississippi, it’s essential 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 identified 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 type of place the place neighbors genuinely look out for one another, making Mississippi a welcoming and tight-knit place to name residence.

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 usually decrease than the nationwide common. The median family earnings in Mississippi for 2025 is about $48,716, considerably decrease than the U.S. median family earnings of $69,243.76.

7. Professional: Mississippi is stuffed with historical past

Mississippi is wealthy in historical past, from its pivotal function within the Civil Rights Motion to its deep roots in blues music. You possibly can 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 via the Mississippi Blues Path, you’ll be taught concerning the previous nearly wherever you go. 

8. Con: Mississippi is a harmful state to drive in

Mississippi could be a harmful state to drive in resulting from its excessive variety of rural roads. Rural roads are 4 instances 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 residence to quite a few state parks, lakes, and rivers good for mountaineering, fishing, and boating. The Gulf Coast supplies stunning seashores for rest and watersports, whereas the Mississippi River provides scenic views and alternatives for river cruises. Take a stroll via the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at Tishomingo State Park, the place you’ll discover distinctive rock formations, scenic trails, and swinging bridges. In the event 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 may discover white sand seashores, kayak via marshes, or spot dolphins alongside the shore. Whether or not you’re mountaineering, fishing, or just soaking within the views, Mississippi’s pure magnificence is all over the place.

10. Con: Pesky bugs and allergy symptoms could also be a difficulty 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. In the event 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, make certain to make use of bug spray and keep away from areas with stagnant water. For allergy symptoms, maintaining home windows closed throughout peak pollen instances and utilizing air purifiers will help make your property 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 as we speak. 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 world.

12. Con: There’s flesh-eating micro organism in coastal waters

Though a uncommon prevalence, Mississippi is residence to flesh-eating micro organism referred to as Vibrio vulnificus which might be life-threatening. Vibrio vulnificus lives in heat coastal waters, so you probably have open wounds, together with cuts and scrapes, it’s best to think about staying out of brackish water. You may as well discover these micro organism in uncooked seafood or its juices, so that you’ll need to be cautious when consuming these meals.