Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Jackson, MS
Thinking about moving to Jackson, MS? With a population of nearly 150,000, Jackson offers a low cost of living—median home prices around $67,000 and typical rents near $960—plus short average commutes of 21 minutes. You'll enjoy warm Southern weather with 62% sunny days, but should be aware of higher crime rates compared to national averages. The city features a diverse community, major healthcare centers, and access to local colleges, making it an affordable option with a vibrant culture for new residents.
Demographics - Jackson, MS
Demographics - Jackson, MS
Jackson, MS is home to nearly 150,000 residents, with a predominantly Black community making up over 80% of the population. The city is relatively young, with a median age of 33.5, and features a moderate population density. Most residents speak English at home, contributing to a cohesive local culture.
Population:
149,761
Density:
1,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.5
Gender Ratio:
86 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
18.2%
Black:
81.1%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
1.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Jackson, MS?
Jackson offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $67,000 and average rents near $960, making homeownership and renting accessible for many. Utility and transportation costs are reasonable, and the city maintains a cost of living index well below the national average. State income taxes range from 3% to 5%, helping residents stretch their budgets further.
Median House Value:
$67,000
Gross Rent:
$960
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,360
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,110
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
80.2
Grocery:
91.3
Housing:
38.5
Utilities:
97.4
Transportation:
86.8
Health Care:
91.1
Miscellaneous:
86.0
Crime
Is Jackson, MS a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Jackson are higher than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 1,628 per 100,000 and a property crime rate of 4,420 per 100,000 residents. This means residents have a 1 in 61 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 23 chance of property crime. Newcomers should consider neighborhood safety when choosing where to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,628
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,420
Crime Index:
6,048
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 61
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 23
Weather
What is the weather like in Jackson, MS year-round?
Jackson enjoys a warm Southern climate, with mild winters averaging a low of 36°F and hot summers reaching up to 92°F. The city sees about 62% sunny days and receives over 52 inches of rain annually, making it lush and green for much of the year. Overall, Jackson’s weather is ideal for those who appreciate plenty of sunshine and mild seasonal changes.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
53°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
52.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Residents in Jackson benefit from a median household income of about $37,100, though the area has a higher poverty rate of 26.5%. Most neighbors have completed high school, and a quarter hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The community is diverse and friendly, with short average commutes and affordable rental options.
Median Income:
$39,900
Household Income:
$37,100
Family Income:
$48,300
Per Capita Income:
$21,900
Income Male:
$30,600
Income Female:
$26,400
Poverty Rate:
26.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.6%
Rent:
$960
Unemployment Rate:
7.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
21.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
86.7%
Bachelors or More:
24.0%
Education
How are the schools in Jackson, MS?
Jackson offers a range of educational opportunities, including public schools like Murrah High School and Power APAC School, as well as private institutions such as Jackson Academy. The city is also home to higher education options like Jackson State University and Millsaps College, providing access to quality education from elementary through college. Families moving to Jackson will find diverse schooling choices to meet their needs.
Public Schools
Name:
Murrah High School
Street:
1400 Murrah Dr
Phone:
601-960-5380
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Name:
Power APAC School
Street:
1120 Riverside Dr
Phone:
601-960-5387
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2
Private Schools
Name:
Jackson Academy
Street:
4908 Ridgewood Rd
Phone:
601-362-9676
Students:
1,200
Colleges
Name:
Jackson State University
City:
Jackson
State:
MS
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
6,900
Name:
Millsaps College
City:
Jackson
State:
MS
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
800
Healthcare
Jackson is served by major healthcare facilities like the University of Mississippi Medical Center and St. Dominic Hospital, both offering emergency services. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 86% health insurance coverage, access to medical care is strong. The city’s healthcare system is a vital asset for families and retirees alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
University of Mississippi Medical Center
Address:
2500 N State St, Jackson, MS 39216
Phone:
(601) 984-1000
Type:
General & Teaching Hospital
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Dominic Hospital
Address:
969 Lakeland Dr, Jackson, MS 39216
Phone:
(601) 200-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.2%
Health Care Index:
68.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Jackson, MS?
The housing market in Jackson is very affordable, with a median home price of $67,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $960. About half of the residents own their homes, and the city has a relatively high rental vacancy rate of nearly 13%. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates make it attractive for first-time buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$67,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$960
Owner Occupied Rate:
51.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
12.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.2%
DMV Information
Jackson residents are served by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety’s Driver Service Bureau, conveniently located on E Woodrow Wilson Ave. The DMV offers essential services including licensing and registration, and can be reached by phone or through their official website. Newcomers will find all driver and vehicle services locally accessible.
State:
Mississippi
Department:
Mississippi Department of Public Safety - Driver Service Bureau
Address:
1900 E Woodrow Wilson Ave, Jackson, MS 39216
Phone:
1-601-987-1224
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.