Thinking of moving to Mississippi? The state ranks 2nd nationally for its GDP growth, with growing jobs in healthcare, manufacturing, real estate, and retail trade. With its affordable housing, The Hospitality State ranks among the most desirable states to move to in 2025.
But the move comes with trade-offs. Due to its location in the infamous Tornado Alley, Mississippi faces a high risk of tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods. Still, many are choosing cities like Meridian, Gulfport, and Biloxi for their lower living costs and better quality of life.
👉 Download the Houzeo mobile app and start your Mississippi home search today.
AT A GLANCE:
- Mississippi ranks 2nd in the nation for GDP growth, with growing jobs in the healthcare, manufacturing, real estate, and retail trade sectors.
- The cost of living in Mississippi is 13% lower than the national average. The state also ranks #1 for housing affordability.
- Mississippi offers several tax benefits, including a $300 to $7,500 homestead exemption, and no tax on social security benefits.
- Higher education in Mississippi is the 3rd-most affordable in the US.
- Expect to pay between $2,200 and $6,400 for your move, depending on how far you’re moving and the size of your belongings.
- Mississippi has a humid subtropical climate, with long summers, mild winters, and the occasional cold snap.
3 Reasons to Move to Mississippi
Why settle for just sunny beaches when you can also enjoy the high life? Browse through over thousands of mansions, high-rise penthouses, and spacious luxury homes for sale in Mississippi, and enjoy the finest the state has to offer.
1. Affordable Housing
Mississippi ranks #1 for its housing affordability. The state has a median home price of $191K, 48% lower than the national average. Rent in Mississippi is also 29% cheaper.
Recent Mississippi housing market trends show that 23% of the homes have seen price drops. Moreover, a property spends 14 days more on the market as compared to the previous year. This slowdown gives buyers more negotiating power to secure a better deal.
2. Jobs in Mississippi
Mississippi has over 64,000 new job openings in 2025, and aims to add 74,070 more by 2032. Healthcare, manufacturing, construction, and transportation are among the fastest-growing job sectors in Mississippi.
- Healthcare: The healthcare sector in Mississippi contributes around $11.7 billion to the state’s GDP, and supports over 187,175 jobs across the state. Roles like nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and physical therapists are in high demand.
- Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector generates around $18.5 billion annually, and supports 141,464 jobs across the state. High-demand roles include industrial mechanics, maintenance technicians, CNC operators, and production supervisors.
- Real Estate: The real estate sector in Mississippi contributes over $16.3 billion annually, and supports 23,834 jobs across the state. Real estate agents and property managers are in high demand. A real estate worker earns $81,252 per year on average.
- Retail Trade: The retail trade sector contributes $10.5 billion to the state’s GDP annually, and supports over 158,120 jobs across the state. The sector is expected to grow by 4.4% in 2025, with the average annual salary for a retail worker being $33,785.
3. Tax Benefits
Mississippi has a flat income tax of 4.4% in 2025, with plans to gradually reduce it to 3% by 2030. The first $10K of your annual income is exempt from the income tax. Moreover, Mississippi fully exempts Social Security benefits, and there is no estate or inheritance tax.
The Hospitality State also offers up to $300 homestead exemptions for the first $7,500 of a home’s assessed value. Plus, homeowners aged 65 and older, or those who are fully disabled, can qualify for an exemption of up to $7,500 of their home’s assessed value.
Pros and Cons of Living in Mississippi
Here are the benefits and drawbacks of living in Mississippi:
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. You have easy access to jobs in the healthcare, manufacturing, real estate, and retail sectors. | 1. Summers are very hot with temperatures ranging from 74°F to 99°F. |
| 2. The cost of living in Mississippi is 13% lower than the national average. The state also ranks #1 for its housing affordability. | 2. Located in the infamous Tornado Alley, Mississippi is prone to tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods. |
| 3. The state levies the 2nd-lowest property tax in the country. Plus, it offers $300 to $7,500 homestead exemption. | 3. Mississippi is home to over 60 mosquito species, especially noticeable during the warm, rainy months. |
| 4. Mississippi ranks as the 3rd-most affordable state for higher education. | 4. Despite its booming job market, job options in rural Mississippi are limited. |
Things to Know Before Moving to Mississippi 📌
Here’s what to keep in mind before relocating to Mississippi:
1. Cost of Living in Mississippi
The cost of living in Mississippi is 13% lower than the national average. So, you’ll save on expenses like utilities, food, healthcare, and transportation.
The Hospitality State is an appealing option compared to more popular states like California and New York, where living costs are 58% and 30% above the national average.
2. Infrastructure and Transportation
Mississippi faces several challenges with its aging and overburdened infrastructure. 57% of the roads in Mississippi are in poor condition. Moreover, 67% of the state’s electricity transmission and 37% of the distribution system are over 50 years old.
Despite facing several challenges, Mississippi is actively investing in various projects to improve its infrastructure. The state is set to receive over $3.6 billion in federal funding over the next five years to improve its highways and bridges.
3. Climate in Mississippi
Mississippi has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 74°F to 99°F. On the other hand, winters are mild, with temperatures between 29°F and 60°F. Additionally, the state receives 50 to 65 inches of precipitation each year.
However, due to its location in the infamous Tornado Alley, the state is prone to tornadoes, floods, and severe weather. Make sure you check FEMA-designated high-risk zones and local guidelines in your area before moving to Mississippi.
4. Laws and Regulations
- Vehicle and Driver’s License Registration: After moving to Mississippi, you have to register your vehicle within 30 days, and obtain a driver’s license within 60 days. You will need proof of residency, insurance, and title documents for registration.
- Moving to Mississippi with a Gun: No permits, background checks, or registration are required to purchase or open carry a gun for those over 18. Concealed carry is only allowed for adults over 21.
- Recreational Marijuana: Use of marijuana for recreational purposes is illegal in Mississippi. Possession can lead to $250 to $1 million in fines, and up to 30 years in prison.
- Pet Registration Laws: All pets must be licensed and vaccinated for rabies by the local county office. A pet license in Mississippi costs $19.95, and its validity depends on the county you are moving to.
5. Tax Burden in Mississippi
Mississippi has one of the lowest tax burdens in the country. Here’s a breakdown:
- Income Tax in Mississippi: Mississippi has a flat 4.4% state individual income tax, which is set to gradually reduce to 3% by 2030. The first $10,000 of your income is exempted, and cities are not allowed to levy any local income taxes.
- Sales Tax in Mississippi: Mississippi levies a 7% sales tax, which is the 2nd-highest in the country. Cities often levy an additional local sales tax, brining the state’s average up to 7.06%.
- Property Taxes in Mississippi: With a property tax rate of 0.58%, the state has one of the lowest property taxes in the country. However, cities levy local property taxes. A homeowner pays an annual average of $1,600 in property taxes for a house worth $277,000.
How to Move to Mississippi?
Before buying a house in Mississippi, follow this step-by-step guide for a seamless move:
1. How to Plan Your Logistics?
- If you want to skip all the heavy lifting, consider hiring a professional mover. You can expect to pay around $105 per hour. However, this amount can vary depending on the size of your belongings and the distance.
- If you want to DIY, renting a truck is a better option. The average cost to rent a mid-sized truck with a load capacity of 4,000 to 6,000 lbs ranges between $40 and $80 per day. Be sure to factor in additional charges for mileage, fuel, and insurance.
2. How to Set Up Utilities?
Getting your utilities set up is a straightforward process in Mississippi:
- Electricity and Gas: Entergy Mississippi is the largest electricity provider in the state, while Delta Utilities is the largest natural gas provider. You can visit their websites to check availability in your area and start service.
- Water and Sewer: These services are usually provided by the municipality’s utility department, along with some local companies. Visit your city website to find out about service providers in your area.
- Internet and Cable: AT&T, MaxxSouth, and Spectrum are among the largest internet and cable service providers in the state. On average, internet and cable connection costs per month.
3. How to Enroll Your Kids in Schools in Mississippi?
Most schools in Mississippi offer online registration:
- For Kindergarten: Children must be at least 5 years old for kindergarten enrollment, and 6 years old by September 1 for enrollment in the first grade. You will need the child’s birth certificate, vaccination records, proof of residency, and a photo ID.
- For Older Kids: You’ll need all the above-mentioned documents, in addition to transcripts and a withdrawal form from their previous school. If your kids are high school athletes, check their athletic eligibility with the new school before enrolling.
- Transfers and Special Cases: These are typically managed by the local school districts in Mississippi. You can visit their website or directly reach out to the school district office for assistance in the enrollment process.
4. How to Transfer Your Job or Find a New One?
- Work From Home: 12% of employees in Mississippi work remotely. If you are someone who works remotely and is moving to Mississippi, just ask your employer about any state-specific tax and employment laws.
- Find a New Job: Mississippi Works is a state-run job portal that allows you to create free profiles, search for job openings, and apply for positions. You can also visit portals like Indeed and LinkedIn to search and apply for jobs in your city.
5. How to Find the Perfect House?
The Mississippi housing market leans in favor of buyers at present. 23.6% of homes have seen price drops, and inventory has increased by 10.6%. This gives buyers more negotiating power to secure better deals.
- In popular cities like Meridian, Gulfport, and Biloxi, the average rent is around $1,500. It typically depends on the neighborhood you’re moving to, and the available amenities.
- If you plan to buy a home in a popular city, homes for sale in Meridian cost around $113K. Cities like Jackson and Yazoo City offer more affordable options, with median home prices of $84K and $71K respectively.
Should I Move to Mississippi?
Yes, you should definitely move to Mississippi. The state combines new opportunities, a good quality of life, and friendly communities. However, relocating to Mississippi isn’t easy. It takes time, careful planning, and effort to find the perfect place to call your home.
With Houzeo, Mississippi’s best home-buying website, buying a house in the Hospitality State is simple. You can browse through the latest listings, save your favorites, schedule showings, and submit offers, all at your fingertips.
» NEED MORE CLARITY? Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews and learn why the platform is the best in America’s competitive housing market.
Data Sources
To help you make a smart move to Mississippi, we analyzed key data points that impact relocation costs, lifestyle, and employment prospects. We’ve sourced reliable, up-to-date data across the following categories:
- Statistical Atlas: Major employers
- Zillow: Average rent, Median home price
- MoveBuddha: Estimated moving costs
- Thisoldhouse: DIY truck rental rates, Average cost of moving
By backing our insights with real numbers, we give you a clear picture of what it really takes to relocate to Mississippi, long before the moving boxes are packed.
