Moving To State • Mississippi

Moving to Mississippi: Pros and Cons in 2025

Ryan Carrigan

Last Updated: Aug 7, 2025
10 min read

Thinking of moving to Mississippi? You’re not alone. The Magnolia State draws folks from everywhere—whether you’re after the excitement of Jackson or the charm of quiet small towns, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.

Mississippi has plenty to offer, but before making the move and buying a home, take a moment to weigh the pros and cons.

We’ll break down everything you should know about moving to Mississippi so you can easily decide if it’s the right place for you.

Jump to the Mississippi information you are looking for:

Pros & cons
Attractions
Fun facts
Population & demographics
Weather
Income & cost of living
Top schools
Top movers to MS
Top car shippers to MS
FAQs

Pros & cons of living in Mississippi

Like any big move, relocating to Mississippi comes with its own upsides and potential downsides that are important to consider.

Here’s a look at some of the biggest pros and cons of living in the Magnolia State to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of living in Mississippi

✓Southern hospitality
✓Delicious comfort food
✓Mild winters
✓Low cost of living
✓Nice beaches

Cons of living in Mississippi

✖Extreme weather
✖Lackluster economy
✖Low diversity
✖Poor healthcare
✖Political homogeneity

Things to do in Mississippi

No matter why you’re heading to Mississippi—for a job, family, or just a change of scenery—you’ll want to dive into everything your new home has to offer. The great thing is, Mississippi is packed with exciting activities and places to discover, no matter what you’re into.

These places are perfect for family outings or for meeting new people if you’re exploring on your own. With so many choices, you’re sure to find a spot that matches your style and makes you feel at home.

Popular Attractions in Mississippi

Vicksburg National Military Park
Mississippi Museum of Natural Science
Natchez Trace Parkway
Gulf Coast Beaches & Water Activities
Jackson Zoological Park
Gulf Islands Waterpark
Elvis Presley’s Birthplace
Tupelo National Battlefield
Marine Life Oceanarium
Riley Center

Museums in Mississippi

1. Mississippi Civil Rights Museum
2. Mississippi Museum of Natural Science
3. Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum
4. Mississippi Children’s Museum
5. The Delta Blues Museum
6. Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum
7. U.S.S. Cairo Museum
8. Walter Anderson Museum of Art
9. Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art
10. Mississippi Armed Forces Museum

Parks in Mississippi

1. Vicksburg National Military Park
2. Bonita Lakes Park
4. Jones Park
5. Flowood Nature Park
6. Bluff Park
7. War Memorial Park
8. Tunica RiverPark
9. Pascagoula Beach Park
10. Ballard Park
12. Olive Branch City Park

Fun facts about Mississippi

Each state has its own distinct flavor, influenced by its history, culture, and residents. Exploring local traditions and quirks lets you really experience what life is like there.

Learning these fun facts about Mississippi reveals what makes the state unique—and might even spark your interest in making it your new home.

The French established the first permanent settlement in present-day Mississippi in 1699.[4] Before the arrival of the Europeans, three groups of people inhabited the place: the Natchez, the Chickasaw, and the Choctaw
On January 9, 1861, MS became the second southern state to declare its secession from the United States of America.
The name of the state is derived from the Mississippi River. The settlers in the region named the state from the Ojibwe word misi-ziibi (meaning “Great River”).[1] The Mississippi River forms the western boundary of the state and empties into the Gulf of Mexico.
On average, Mississippi is affected by 27 tornadoes each year. Also, note that two of the five deadliest tornadoes in U.S. history have occurred in the state.
The world’s first human lung transplant was performed by Dr. James Hardy at the University Of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson on June 11, 1963. However, the recipient, unfortunately, survived for only 18 days
Elvis Presley (“The King of Rock and Roll”), born on January 08, 1935, regarded as one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century was born in Tupelo, MS.
“Memorial Day” or “Decoration Day” finds its origin in Columbus, MS. Women on April 25, 1866, decorated the graves of both the Confederate and Union soldiers in Friendship Cemetery in the city, marking the beginning of the celebration of the day in the honor of those who lost their lives while serving in the United States armed forces.
More than 50% of the area of the state is covered by wild or cultivated trees.
Oprah Winfrey, the famous TV host was born in Kosciusko, Mississippi, United States.
The state has the highest population of black residents (more than 35%) of any U.S. state.
It is noteworthy that MS is home to NASA’s largest rocket engine test facility – The John C. Stennis Space Center (SSC) located in Hancock County
Mississippi is the poorest state in the U.S. The state has the lowest average income among the 50 U.S. states. However, the state has some of the nicest and most generous people in the country.
After the Missouri River, the Mississippi River is the second largest river of the United States. It is 3,778 km long. The Mississippi River lies entirely within the United States.
Britney Spears, the famous American pop singer was born in McComb, MS.
The population of the White-tailed Deer, which is estimated to exceed 1.75 million in the state, is higher on a deer-per-unit-area basis (density) than any other state, and only Texas has a greater number of deer. Nationally, the population of the White-tailed deer exceeds 30 million.

Mississippi population and demographics

Planning a move to Mississippi? Get the inside scoop on what living in the Magnolia State is truly all about—not just the stats.

Choosing a more populous state often brings you more job options, a lively entertainment scene, and better infrastructure. In contrast, moving to a less crowded state usually means a quieter life and a closer-knit community.

Checking out average education levels gives you a sense of local job opportunities and how easy it is to find schools or colleges nearby. Meanwhile, a state’s political landscape reveals what values and priorities matter most to people living there.

Learning about the people, daily life, and values in Mississippi can help you decide if it’s the right place for you to feel at home.

Metric	Mississippi
Population	10,037,261
Female	50.4%
Male	49.6%
College graduation rate	24.78%
Political leaning	Republican 60.9-38
Crime index	19.92

Mississippi weather

Weather plays a major role in daily life, so it’s smart to consider it when deciding if Mississippi is right for you. Looking at seasonal temperatures and rainfall will help you plan outdoor activities, pick the right clothing, and stay prepared for whatever the forecast brings.

Scorching summer days can send your energy bills soaring and leave you cranking the AC around the clock. When winter rolls in, you’ll want a warm wardrobe and reliable heating to stay comfortable. And when snow falls, you might get anything from a gentle flurry to a heavy storm that throws your daily routine into chaos.

Curious about endless sunshine, refreshing cool breezes, or escaping snowy winters? Understanding Mississippi’s climate is key to figuring out if it matches your vibe.

Metric	Mississippi
Summer high	91ºF
Winter low	33ºF
Annual rain	57″
Annual snow	1″

Income and cost of living in Mississippi

A look at major industries, average income, housing costs, and the overall cost of living gives you a clearer picture of how affordable and sustainable life will likely be in Mississippi.

For example, knowing which industries drive the economy can help you gauge job opportunities in your field or predict the stability of the job market. Whether you’re planning to rent or buy, housing costs are likely one of the biggest pieces of the financial puzzle for you when deciding if you should move.

The cost of living index ties it all together by showing how far your dollar will stretch compared to the national average. A lower index typically means everyday expenses like groceries, transportation, and housing are more affordable.

These numbers are more than just statistics. They’re practical tools that help you compare your current lifestyle to what’s possible in Mississippi and make a confident, informed decision about your move.

The main economic industries in the state include:

Manufacturing ($18.8 billion)
Real estate and rental and leasing ($12 billion)
Educational services, health care, and social assistance ($10 billion)
Retail trade ($9 billion)
Professional and business services ($8.3 billion)
Wholesale trade ($6.2 billion)
Finance and insurance ($5.6 billion)
Arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation, and food services ($5.2 billion)
Transportation and warehousing ($4.3 billion)
Construction ($4.3 billion)

Metric	Mississippi
Average rent cost	$896
Average home cost	$181,313
Average income (per capita)	$68,505
Cost of living index*	85
Unemployment rate	2.9%
Average sales tax	Not available
State income tax	4.7%

*To figure out the cost of living in each state, there’s a 100-point index, known as the cost of living index. This metric starts with a baseline number of 100. States with a number below that are less expensive to live in while states with numbers higher than 100 are more expensive to live in.

Top schools in Mississippi

If education ranks high on your moving checklist, a state’s schools and universities can reveal a lot about local career opportunities and the overall community vibe.

If you’re thinking about heading back to school, have kids nearing graduation, or simply want to live somewhere with great educational opportunities, Mississippi is definitely worth a look.

Here are some of the top schools in Mississippi:

Mississippi State University
University of Mississippi
University of Southern Mississippi
University of Mississippi Medical Center
Jackson State University
Mississippi College
Belhaven University
Delta State University
Tougaloo College
Mississippi University for Wome
William Carey University
Millsaps College
Mississippi Valley State University
Alcorn State University
Rust College

Finding the best moving company for your relocation to Mississippi

We sifted through 2,756 moving companies across the country, including 10 right here in Mississippi, and teamed up with actual movers and people like you to find the very best in the business.

Planning a move to the Magnolia State? Take a look at the best moving companies that’ll make sure your belongings arrive safely, wherever you’re coming from.

Cost of moving to Mississippi

Before making your move to Mississippi, it’s smart to plan for the costs involved. On average, expect to spend around $136 per hour for professional movers. Your final price will vary based on the amount you’re moving and the distance—cross-state treks cost more than local relocations.

The way you move can have a major impact on your overall costs.

If you want to cut moving costs, check out one of the top moving container companies. You’ll get to pack and load your belongings whenever it works for you, while the company takes care of all the driving. It’s the perfect way to combine flexibility and savings—no need to go fully DIY or pay for an expensive full-service move.

Looking to cut costs? A moving truck rental is the cheapest route. You handle all the packing, loading, driving, and unloading yourself.

Want to skip the stress of moving on your own? Professional interstate movers can handle everything for you. But remember, this level of convenience usually comes with a bigger price tag—so be sure to shop around and compare quotes to find the best fit for your budget and your move.

Company	Quote	Rating
Safeway Moving	Get A Quote	4.9 / 5
Mayzlin Relocation	Get A Quote	4.9 / 5
BLVD Moving	Get A Quote	4.3 / 5
PODS	Get A Quote	4.8 / 5
American Van Lines	Get A Quote	4.5 / 5

Cost to bring your car to Mississippi

Bringing a car with you? Use our car shipping calculator below to estimate how much it’ll cost to transport your vehicle to Mississippi.

Mississippi car insurance requirements

Mississippi drivers need to have at least $25,000 in car insurance for each person and $50,000 per accident for injuries. They also need $25,000 for property damage. This insurance helps cover costs in an accident, protecting drivers and their belongings. Following these rules is important to avoid legal trouble and improve safety on the roads.

Mississippi drivers license requirements

New Mississippi residents need to get a state driver’s license within 60 days of moving there. You must also register your out-of-state vehicle within 30 days.

FAQ

Is it worth it to move to Mississippi?

Moving to Mississippi is worth it if you’re interested in popular attractions the state has to offer, enjoy the local weather, and the cost of living fits your budget. You should spend some time weighing all the pros and cons to determine if Mississippi is a good fit for you and your lifestyle.

How much money should I have to move to Mississippi?

On the cost of living index, Mississippi has a score of 85. You can use the cost of living index, based on a 100-point scale, to determine a state’s relative affordability. This cost of living index uses 100 as the baseline, so states with a number under 100 are less expensive, and states scoring over 100 are more expensive.

What salary do I need to live comfortably in Mississippi?

The average income in MS is $68,505, and the an unemployment rate is 2.9. Home prices are $181,313, on average, and monthly rent is typically around $896.

What is the downside of living in Mississippi?

Like any place, Mississippi has its drawbacks to consider before moving there.

The most common downsides of living in Magnolia State include:

Extreme weather
Lackluster economy
Low diversity
Poor healthcare
Political homogeneity

Mississippi Moving Resources

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