Median Household Income
$54,098
National average: $83,894
36% below national average
Moving From Mississippi
Whether you're leaving Jackson for better career opportunities, relocating from the Gulf Coast for a fresh start, or heading out of Mississippi for a higher-paying job market — planning a long-distance move from Mississippi starts with understanding costs, timing, and which movers serve your route. Below you'll find real data on what Mississippi residents pay, where they're moving, and how to compare screened movers for free.
2,043,876
Population
$54,098
Median Income
$170,866
Median Home
Get Quotes for Your Mississippi Move
Compare screened movers for your route. Free, no obligation.
2,043,876
Population
$54,098
Median Income
$170,866
Median Home Value
22.4 minutes
Commute Time
27.9%
College Educated
22.1%
Poverty Rate
Overview
Why People Are Moving Out of Mississippi
Mississippi has been losing population for years, and the trend has accelerated. The state dropped from 2.97 million residents in 2020 to below 2.94 million by recent estimates, making it one of the few states experiencing absolute population decline. The reasons are primarily economic: Mississippi has the lowest median household income in the nation, the highest poverty rate, and limited job market diversity outside a handful of sectors. For ambitious residents — especially young college graduates — leaving Mississippi often feels less like a choice and more like an economic necessity.
The job market is the central issue. Mississippi's economy relies heavily on agriculture, manufacturing, military installations (Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Columbus Air Force Base, Camp Shelby), healthcare, and government employment. While these sectors provide stable jobs, they offer limited upward mobility and lower wages than comparable positions in neighboring states. A registered nurse, engineer, or IT professional in Mississippi earns 15–25% less than counterparts in Texas, Tennessee, or Georgia. For workers in tech, finance, or professional services, the opportunities simply don't exist at scale within the state.
Jackson, the capital and largest city, exemplifies the state's challenges. The city has lost population every decade since 1980, as residents have moved to suburbs like Madison, Brandon, and Flowood — or left the state entirely. Jackson's infrastructure problems, including the 2022 water crisis that left residents without clean water for weeks, have accelerated departures. The city's tax base has eroded as the population has declined, creating a cycle of deteriorating services and further outmigration that has proven difficult to reverse.
The most common outmigration patterns involve young graduates heading to Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, or Alabama for better-paying jobs and larger metros; military families transferring from Mississippi's bases to installations nationwide; Gulf Coast residents relocating after hurricane damage or insurance cost increases; and families seeking better-funded school systems and more economic opportunity for their children. Mississippi's low cost of living is its strongest retention tool, but for many residents, the wage gap more than offsets the savings.
Cost of Living
How Mississippi Compares
Key financial metrics for Mississippi residents versus the national average.
Median Home Value
$170,866
National average: $447,430
62% below national average
Rent Burden
35.8%
National average: 33%
8% above national average
Median Age
36.7
National average: 37.6
2% below national average
Commute Time
22.4 minutes
National average: 26.4 minutes
15% below national average
College Educated
27.9%
National average: 38.3%
27% below national average
Mississippi has the lowest cost of living of any state in the country, and it isn't close. Housing is extraordinarily affordable — median home prices in Jackson, Hattiesburg, and most of the state run 40–60% below the national average. Groceries, utilities, and healthcare costs are also below average. This affordability is Mississippi's most compelling feature for residents deciding whether to stay. However, the low cost of living is directly tied to low wages — when you compare purchasing power rather than raw costs, the advantage narrows considerably. Moving to Texas or Tennessee means higher costs but proportionally higher earnings. When planning your move, compare salary differences alongside living costs to understand the true financial impact.
Largest Cities
Top Cities in Mississippi
Key stats for the largest metro areas in Mississippi. These are the cities most movers service on routes out of the state.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jackson | 333,212 | $42,071 | $115,426 |
| Gulfport | 244,766 | $49,919 | $175,488 |
| Hattiesburg | 79,749 | $46,342 | $166,358 |
| Southaven | 56,226 | $78,483 | $237,768 |
| Biloxi | 48,861 | $57,204 | $225,722 |
| Olive Branch | 47,019 | $100,606 | $289,777 |
| Tupelo | 37,791 | $66,257 | $212,720 |
| Meridian | 34,137 | $36,562 | $111,031 |
| Greenville | 28,166 | $40,083 | $106,904 |
| Madison | 27,946 | $119,338 | $354,281 |
| Pearl | 27,737 | $61,695 | $182,100 |
| Clinton | 27,195 | $74,745 | $226,237 |
| Horn Lake | 26,647 | $53,311 | $171,192 |
| Oxford | 26,411 | $64,451 | $390,785 |
| Starkville | 25,721 | $42,125 | $295,682 |
City Profiles
Moving From Key Mississippi Cities
What movers and residents should know about the largest metro areas in Mississippi.
Jackson
Pop. 333,212 Income $42,071 Home $115,426
Jackson is Mississippi's capital and largest metro, home to state government, healthcare systems (University of Mississippi Medical Center), and the state's largest concentration of professional jobs. The city has faced well-documented challenges — population decline, infrastructure problems, and the 2022 water crisis shook confidence in the city's future. Many Jackson residents have moved to surrounding suburbs in Rankin and Madison counties, and others have left the state entirely. Moving from Jackson follows I-55 north to Memphis and Tennessee or south to the Gulf Coast, and I-20 west to Louisiana and Texas or east to Alabama. Carrier options are moderate, with better availability on the I-55 corridor.
Read full Jackson guide →Gulfport
Pop. 244,766 Income $49,919 Home $175,488
Gulfport is the second-largest city in Mississippi and the heart of the Gulf Coast metro alongside Biloxi. The economy blends military (Keesler Air Force Base nearby), gaming and tourism (casino industry), healthcare, and the port. Hurricane Katrina devastated the area in 2005, and while rebuilding has been substantial, the threat of future storms and rising insurance costs continue to push residents out. Military transfers account for a significant share of Gulfport moves. The city's location on I-10 provides direct access to New Orleans, Mobile, and the broader Gulf Coast corridor, making moves to Louisiana, Alabama, and Texas straightforward.
Read full Gulfport guide →Hattiesburg
Pop. 79,749 Income $46,342 Home $166,358
Hattiesburg is a college town anchored by the University of Southern Mississippi and William Carey University. Healthcare (Forrest General Hospital, Merit Health Wesley) is the other major employer. The city has a cost of living even below Mississippi's already low average, making it one of the most affordable places to live in the country. Residents who leave Hattiesburg typically seek career opportunities that the local economy cannot provide — the job market outside education and healthcare is limited. The city sits at the junction of US-49 and US-98, connecting north to Jackson and I-20, and south to the Gulf Coast.
Southaven
Pop. 56,226 Income $78,483 Home $237,768
Southaven is Mississippi's third-largest city, sitting directly on the Tennessee border as a suburb of Memphis. Many Southaven residents work in Memphis and chose Mississippi for its lower cost of living and property taxes. The city functions more as part of the Memphis metro than as a Mississippi community in many practical ways. Residents leaving Southaven often relocate elsewhere in the Memphis area or move further south within Mississippi. For those leaving the state entirely, the proximity to Memphis means access to a major carrier hub with competitive pricing on routes throughout the Southeast and beyond.
Tupelo
Pop. 37,791 Income $66,257 Home $212,720
Tupelo is a northeast Mississippi city best known as Elvis Presley's birthplace, but its economy is grounded in healthcare (North Mississippi Health Services), manufacturing, and retail serving the surrounding rural region. The city has maintained relative economic stability compared to other Mississippi metros, with a diversified employer base that includes furniture manufacturing and automotive suppliers. Residents leaving Tupelo typically head to Memphis, Nashville, or Birmingham for larger job markets. The city sits along the Natchez Trace Parkway and US-78 (now I-22), which connects directly to Birmingham and the broader interstate system.
Planning Your Move
What to Know Before Leaving Mississippi
What Your Move Will Likely Cost
Moving out of Mississippi typically costs $1,500–$5,500 for a 2-bedroom household, depending on distance. Moves to neighboring states like Tennessee, Alabama, or Louisiana run $1,000–$2,500. Texas moves cost $1,500–$3,500. Longer moves to Florida or the East Coast range from $2,500–$5,500. Mississippi's central Southern location keeps costs moderate for most popular destinations. Get 3–5 quotes for your route.
Hurricane Season Planning
Mississippi's Gulf Coast is vulnerable to hurricanes from June through November, with peak risk in August and September. If you're moving from the coast during hurricane season, have a contingency plan for weather delays. Movers will reschedule for named storms at no additional charge. If possible, plan your coastal move for March through May or October through November when weather is pleasant and hurricane risk is lower.
Summer Heat Considerations
Mississippi summers are punishing — temperatures regularly exceed 95 degrees with high humidity from June through September. Moving in these conditions is physically demanding and can be dangerous. If you must move in summer, schedule loading to begin at dawn, ensure movers and family members stay hydrated, and protect heat-sensitive items like candles, electronics, and vinyl records. Spring and fall moves are more comfortable and often cheaper.
Salary Adjustments at Your Destination
Mississippi has the lowest wages in the country, which means many residents moving to other states receive significant salary increases. Research compensation for your role in the destination city before you move — you may find that even with higher costs of living, your purchasing power improves. This salary bump can help offset moving costs and make the transition financially positive from the start.
Downsizing Before Your Move
Long-distance movers charge by weight and volume. Mississippi's affordable housing often means larger homes with more storage space, which leads to accumulated belongings. Start decluttering at least six weeks before your move. Sell bulky furniture and items that cost more to move than replace. Reducing your shipment by 1,000 pounds saves $300–$500 on a long-distance move.
Utilities and Address Changes
Before leaving Mississippi, schedule disconnects with Entergy Mississippi, Mississippi Power, or your local utility cooperative. File a change of address with USPS at least two weeks before moving. Update your address with the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (driver's license), Department of Revenue, your bank, insurance providers, and subscription services.
Timeline
Your Mississippi Moving Timeline
1
8 Weeks Before
Research and compare movers
Start collecting quotes from licensed interstate movers. Mississippi's position in the central South provides access to carriers serving routes east, west, and north. Verify USDOT numbers and check FMCSA complaint history.
2
6 Weeks Before
Declutter and create an inventory
Go room by room and decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. Mississippi's affordable housing means many households have more space — and more accumulated items — than they realize. Create a detailed inventory for your mover.
3
4 Weeks Before
Book your mover and confirm dates
Lock in your preferred moving company and sign the contract. If moving from the Gulf Coast during hurricane season, discuss contingency plans for tropical weather delays. Request a written binding estimate.
4
3 Weeks Before
Start packing non-essentials
Begin with seasonal items, decor, and anything you won't need before moving day. Label every box with contents and destination room. Consider moving insurance for high-value items.
5
2 Weeks Before
Transfer utilities and update your address
Schedule disconnects with Entergy or Mississippi Power. File a USPS change of address. Notify the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Department of Revenue, your bank, employer, and insurance providers.
6
1 Week Before
Confirm everything with your mover
Reconfirm the pickup window, review your inventory, and clarify access instructions. Pack an essentials box with documents, medications, chargers, and a change of clothes for travel.
7
Moving Day
Supervise loading and document condition
Be present when movers load the truck. Note furniture and box conditions on the inventory sheet. Take photos of valuable items. Confirm the delivery address and your contact number with the crew.
8
First Week After
Settle in and handle paperwork
Register your vehicle and update your driver's license in your new state within the required timeframe. Transfer your car insurance — rates may change depending on your destination. Begin the process of establishing residency.
Demographics
Mississippi at a Glance
Household Income
Under $25K 25.2%
$25K–50K 23.2%
$50K–75K 16.3%
$75K–100K 11.6%
$100K–150K 12.9%
$150K+ 10.6%
Age Distribution
Under 20 26.7%
20–29 14.8%
30–39 13%
40–49 11.7%
50–59 11.4%
60+ 22.5%
Education Level
Less than High School 12.4%
High School 27.8%
Some College 32%
Bachelor's Degree 16.4%
Graduate Degree 11.5%
Mississippi's demographic profile reflects the nation's poorest state by median household income. The state has a younger population than the national average, driven by higher birth rates, but it loses young adults to outmigration at concerning rates. Education levels trail the national average significantly — Mississippi has one of the lowest shares of residents with bachelor's degrees in the country. The state has the highest percentage of African American residents of any state, concentrated in the Delta region and Jackson metro. Income distribution is heavily weighted toward lower brackets, with a relatively small upper-middle-class compared to most states. Rural depopulation is reshaping the state's geography: the Mississippi Delta and other agricultural regions have lost population steadily for decades as farming has consolidated and mechanized. These demographics drive outmigration that is disproportionately young, educated, and career-motivated — the residents Mississippi can least afford to lose.
State Comparisons
How Mississippi Compares to Popular Moving Destinations
Side-by-side data for the states most Mississippi residents move to.
Mississippi vs. Texas
| Metric | Mississippi | Texas |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $54,098 | $76,235 |
| Median Home Value | $170,866 | $304,205 |
| Median Age | 36.7 | 34.7 |
| Commute Time | 22.4 minutes | 25.4 minutes |
| College Educated | 27.9% | 35.6% |
| Poverty Rate | 22.1% | 15.8% |
Texas is the top destination for Mississippi residents seeking dramatically better economic opportunity. Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio each offer job markets that dwarf anything available in Mississippi, with salaries 20–40% higher for comparable positions. Texas has no state income tax, which provides immediate savings compared to Mississippi's income tax. Housing is more expensive than Mississippi but far more affordable than coastal markets. The cultural adjustment is modest — Texas shares Southern traditions and warm weather. The distance is manageable: Jackson to Dallas is roughly 400 miles on I-20, making this one of the most accessible major-market moves for Mississippi residents.
Mississippi vs. Tennessee
| Metric | Mississippi | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $54,098 | $69,223 |
| Median Home Value | $170,866 | $301,130 |
| Median Age | 36.7 | 36.3 |
| Commute Time | 22.4 minutes | 23.4 minutes |
| College Educated | 27.9% | 35.1% |
| Poverty Rate | 22.1% | 16.3% |
Tennessee draws Mississippi residents with no state income tax on wages, Nashville's booming economy, and Memphis's proximity to northern Mississippi communities like Southaven and Olive Branch. Nashville has become one of the fastest-growing cities in America, with healthcare, tech, entertainment, and corporate relocations driving job creation. For Mississippi residents in healthcare, the salary increase from moving to Nashville or Memphis can be substantial. Memphis is so close to the Mississippi border that many residents already commute across state lines. Tennessee offers familiar Southern culture with significantly more economic momentum than Mississippi provides.
Mississippi vs. Alabama
| Metric | Mississippi | Alabama |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $54,098 | $63,950 |
| Median Home Value | $170,866 | $222,353 |
| Median Age | 36.7 | 37.4 |
| Commute Time | 22.4 minutes | 22.9 minutes |
| College Educated | 27.9% | 33% |
| Poverty Rate | 22.1% | 18% |
Alabama is the nearest neighbor that offers incrementally better economic prospects, particularly in the Huntsville metro, which has become one of the South's tech and aerospace hubs. Birmingham provides a larger job market than any Mississippi city. Mobile shares Gulf Coast culture with Gulfport and Biloxi but offers a more diversified economy. The cost of living is similar between the states, so moves to Alabama are typically career-driven rather than cost-driven. The short distance keeps moving costs low — often $1,000–$2,000 for a household move. Culturally, the transition is nearly seamless, making this one of the easiest interstate moves.
Mississippi vs. Florida
| Metric | Mississippi | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $54,098 | $73,239 |
| Median Home Value | $170,866 | $406,275 |
| Median Age | 36.7 | 41 |
| Commute Time | 22.4 minutes | 27.2 minutes |
| College Educated | 27.9% | 36.1% |
| Poverty Rate | 22.1% | 14.7% |
Florida attracts Mississippi residents with its larger job market, no state income tax, and beach lifestyle that builds on the Gulf Coast familiarity many Mississippians already have. Jacksonville, Tampa, and Orlando offer career opportunities in healthcare, logistics, and technology that Mississippi lacks. The Panhandle — Pensacola, Destin, and Panama City — feels culturally similar to coastal Mississippi and draws residents looking for a modest change with better economic prospects. Florida's cost of living has risen significantly, so the move isn't necessarily cheaper. But the combination of no income tax, higher wages, and a more dynamic economy makes the financial math work for most Mississippi residents who make the move.
Mississippi vs. Georgia
| Metric | Mississippi | Georgia |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $54,098 | $78,663 |
| Median Home Value | $170,866 | $365,766 |
| Median Age | 36.7 | 35.1 |
| Commute Time | 22.4 minutes | 25.9 minutes |
| College Educated | 27.9% | 46.4% |
| Poverty Rate | 22.1% | 16.8% |
Georgia — specifically Atlanta — offers Mississippi residents access to one of the Southeast's most dynamic economies. Atlanta's job market spans logistics, entertainment, technology, healthcare, and corporate headquarters in a way that no Mississippi city can approach. Salaries are significantly higher, and the career advancement opportunities are transformative for Mississippi professionals. The distance is moderate: Jackson to Atlanta is about 350 miles via I-20. Housing in Atlanta's suburbs is more expensive than Mississippi but remains reasonable by national standards. For Mississippi college graduates seeking their first career opportunity in a major metro, Atlanta is often the most accessible option geographically and culturally.
Common Routes
Where People From Mississippi Move
The most popular destinations for residents leaving Mississippi, based on migration patterns.
TX
Texas
Popular cities: Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin
TN
Tennessee
Popular cities: Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga
AL
Alabama
Popular cities: Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery
FL
Florida
Popular cities: Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville
GA
Georgia
Popular cities: Atlanta, Augusta, Savannah, Columbus
FAQ
Common Questions About Moving From Mississippi
How much does it cost to move out of Mississippi?
Moves to neighboring Tennessee, Alabama, or Louisiana run $1,000–$2,500 for a 2-bedroom household. Texas moves cost $1,500–$3,500. Florida runs $2,500–$5,000. Longer moves to the Northeast or West Coast range from $4,000–$8,000. Get 3–5 quotes for your specific route.
Where do most people from Mississippi move to?
The most common destinations are Texas, Tennessee, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. Texas and Tennessee draw job seekers and those wanting no income tax. Alabama is popular for its proximity. Atlanta and Florida metros attract professionals seeking career advancement and larger economies.
When is the best time to move from Mississippi?
March through May and October through November offer the best weather for moving. Summer is brutally hot and humid, making outdoor work miserable. Winter is mild and affordable for moving but holiday schedules can limit carrier availability. Avoid hurricane season on the Gulf Coast if possible.
Will I earn more money by leaving Mississippi?
In most cases, yes. Mississippi has the lowest average wages in the nation. Moving to Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, or Florida typically results in a 15–25% salary increase for comparable positions. Even with higher living costs, most Mississippi transplants see improved purchasing power in larger state economies.
How does Mississippi's cost of living compare to popular destination states?
Mississippi is the cheapest state to live in. Every popular destination will have a higher cost of living, but most also offer higher wages. Texas and Tennessee are moderately more expensive. Florida and Georgia's major metros cost 20–40% more. The key is comparing your salary increase against the cost increase.
How do I choose a mover for a long-distance move from Mississippi?
Compare at least 3 quotes from licensed interstate movers. Verify USDOT numbers and check FMCSA complaint history. Mississippi's smaller market means fewer local carriers, so national companies often provide the best options. MoveFinch screens movers for Mississippi routes.
How long does a long-distance move from Mississippi take?
Moves to Tennessee, Alabama, or Louisiana take 1–2 days. Texas takes 2–4 days. Florida takes 2–4 days. Northeast moves take 4–7 days. West Coast takes 7–14 days. Get delivery windows in writing.
What about hurricane risk on the Mississippi Gulf Coast?
The Gulf Coast from Gulfport to Pascagoula is vulnerable to hurricanes, as Katrina demonstrated in 2005. If you're moving from the coast, factor in wind and flood insurance costs at your destination. Moving during hurricane season (June through November) carries the risk of weather delays — have a flexible timeline.
Do I need to update my driver's license after leaving Mississippi?
Yes. Most states require a new driver's license within 30 to 90 days of establishing residency. Bring your Mississippi license, proof of new address, identity documents, and Social Security card to the new state's licensing office.
What should I look for in a moving contract?
A good contract includes a binding estimate, detailed inventory, pickup and delivery windows, total price, and liability coverage. Confirm weight or volume basis and the delivery timeline. Never sign a blank or incomplete contract.
Making the Decision to Leave Mississippi
Leaving Mississippi is a decision many residents wrestle with deeply. The state has real virtues — an incredibly low cost of living, a strong sense of community, rich cultural traditions in food, music, and faith, and a pace of life that feels genuinely unhurried. For residents who have deep family roots, leaving means giving up a support network that's hard to replicate elsewhere. Mississippi's identity is tied to place in a way that few states can match, and that connection keeps many people rooted even when the economics argue otherwise.
But the economics do argue otherwise for many residents, particularly young people and professionals. When comparable jobs in Texas, Tennessee, or Georgia pay 20–40% more, and when the state's public services — schools, infrastructure, healthcare access — rank at or near the bottom nationally, the case for staying becomes harder to make on practical terms. The residents who leave Mississippi are disproportionately young, educated, and career-driven — exactly the people the state needs most to grow its economy and improve its institutions.
If you're planning a move from Mississippi, you're likely moving to a state with higher costs but also higher wages and more opportunity. Get accurate cost estimates from multiple screened movers — Mississippi's central Southern location means reasonable pricing to most popular destinations. Compare the full financial picture: salary difference, cost of living change, tax impact, and long-term career trajectory. For many Mississippi residents, the move out of state is the single most impactful financial decision they'll ever make.
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