Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ocean Springs, MS
Considering a move to Ocean Springs, MS? With a welcoming population of 18,429, this coastal city offers affordable living—median home prices are around $236,500 and average rents near $1,240. Enjoy mild winters, warm summers, and over 60% sunny days yearly. Commutes average just 22.5 minutes and crime rates are relatively low for Mississippi. Ocean Springs stands out for its strong public schools, vibrant arts scene, and relaxed Gulf Coast lifestyle, making it a great choice for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Ocean Springs, MS
Demographics - Ocean Springs, MS
Ocean Springs is home to about 18,400 residents with a median age of 42, reflecting a balanced mix of families and retirees. The city is predominantly White (83%), with a small but present Black, Asian, and other minority communities, and roughly 6.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. This coastal town offers a friendly, moderately dense environment with a slightly higher female population.
Population:
18,429
Density:
1,250 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.1
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
83.0%
Black:
8.1%
Asian:
2.3%
Others:
6.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ocean Springs, MS?
Living in Ocean Springs is affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average and median home values around $236,500. Utilities, groceries, and transportation are reasonably priced, making it an attractive option for those seeking value on the Gulf Coast. State income taxes remain moderate, further contributing to the city's cost-effectiveness.
Median House Value:
$236,500
Gross Rent:
$1,240
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,430
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,360
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$440
State Taxes:
Low:
3%
|
High:
5%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.7
Grocery:
94.5
Housing:
78.9
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
85.4
Health Care:
92.1
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Ocean Springs, MS a safe place to live?
Ocean Springs experiences relatively low violent crime rates for Mississippi, with about 186 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 538 chance of being affected by violent crime. Property crimes are more common, but overall, the city maintains a reputation for being a safe and family-friendly community. Residents enjoy peace of mind compared to many other cities in the region.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
186
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,784
Crime Index:
1,970
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 538
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 56
Weather
What is the weather like in Ocean Springs, MS year-round?
The city enjoys a mild subtropical climate, with winters averaging 45–64°F and summers reaching up to 90°F. Ocean Springs receives about 65 inches of rainfall annually and boasts sunny days 63% of the year, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The pleasant weather supports a year-round coastal lifestyle.

Winter
Min:
45°F
Max:
64°F

Spring
Min:
57°F
Max:
77°F

Summer
Min:
73°F
Max:
90°F

Fall
Min:
60°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
65 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Ocean Springs residents benefit from a median household income of about $66,270 and a relatively low unemployment rate of 4.1%. Most neighbors have finished high school, with nearly one-third holding a bachelor's degree or higher, and average commutes are around 22.5 minutes. The community is diverse, welcoming, and values education and stability.
Median Income:
$37,200
Household Income:
$66,270
Family Income:
$83,400
Per Capita Income:
$34,900
Income Male:
$46,100
Income Female:
$37,400
Poverty Rate:
13.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$1,240
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
22.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
94.4%
Bachelors or More:
31.8%
Education
How are the schools in Ocean Springs, MS?
Ocean Springs is known for strong public schools, including Ocean Springs High School and several elementary options with favorable student-teacher ratios. Private education is also available, and higher education opportunities can be found nearby at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and the University of Southern Mississippi. The city’s commitment to education makes it an appealing destination for families.

Public Schools
Name:
Ocean Springs High School
Street:
6701 Old Spanish Trail
Phone:
228-875-0333
Students:
1,800
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.8
Name:
Ocean Springs Upper Elementary
Street:
2320 Government St
Phone:
228-872-6210
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5

Private Schools
Name:
St. Alphonsus Catholic School
Street:
1501 Government St
Phone:
228-875-5329
Students:
220

Colleges
Name:
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College - Jackson County Campus
City:
Gautier
State:
MS
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
5,600
Name:
The University of Southern Mississippi - Gulf Park
City:
Long Beach
State:
MS
Distance:
45 miles
Students:
4,200
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, including two major hospitals providing emergency and surgical services. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 89% health insurance coverage, healthcare in Ocean Springs is reliable and accessible. The city’s healthcare index reflects strong service availability for families and retirees alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Singing River Hospital
Address:
3109 Bienville Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
Phone:
(228) 818-1111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Ocean Springs Hospital
Address:
3109 Bienville Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
Phone:
(228) 818-1111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.7%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ocean Springs, MS?
Ocean Springs offers a stable and attractive housing market, with median home prices at $236,500 and about 69% of homes owner-occupied. Rental options are available with average rates around $1,240 for a two-bedroom, and the area boasts low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Home values have appreciated by 6.1% in the past year, indicating healthy demand.
Median Home Price:
$236,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,240
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can access DMV services at the Mississippi Department of Public Safety office in nearby D'Iberville, just a short drive away. This location handles licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services for Ocean Springs locals. For more information, residents can visit the state’s official DMV website or call the dedicated phone line.
State:
Mississippi
Department:
Mississippi Department of Public Safety - Driver Service Bureau
Address:
3851 Promenade Pkwy, D'Iberville, MS 39540
Phone:
1-601-987-1212
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.