Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Picayune, MS
Considering a move to Picayune, MS? This friendly city of about 11,700 offers affordable living with median home prices around $157,000 and average rents near $880. Residents enjoy a mild Southern climate with 62% sunny days, short commutes of 29.5 minutes, and access to local schools and healthcare. While property crime rates are above the national average, Picayune boasts a close-knit community feel and a cost of living well below the U.S. average—making it a practical choice for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Picayune, MS
Demographics - Picayune, MS
Picayune, MS, is home to approximately 11,700 residents with a median age of 38.5, reflecting a balanced and diverse community. The city's population is predominantly White (67%), with a significant Black community (28%) and a small percentage of other ethnicities. This moderate-density city offers a welcoming environment for families and individuals alike.
Population:
11,700
Density:
1,070 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.5
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
67.0%
Black:
28.0%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
4.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Picayune, MS?
Living in Picayune is budget-friendly, with a median home value of $157,000 and an overall cost of living index well below the national average. Monthly rent averages $880, and utilities remain affordable, making this city an appealing choice for those seeking lower living expenses. State income tax rates range from 3% to 5%, helping residents keep more of their income.
Median House Value:
$157,000
Gross Rent:
$880
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,040
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$405
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.5
Grocery:
94.5
Housing:
70.2
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
87.0
Health Care:
91.5
Miscellaneous:
88.0
Crime
Is Picayune, MS a safe place to live?
While Picayune has a higher property crime rate compared to national averages, with about 2,280 incidents per 100,000 residents, violent crime remains relatively low. The chance of experiencing violent crime is about 1 in 348, so residents are advised to take standard safety precautions. Overall, the community remains proactive in promoting a safe environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
287
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,280
Crime Index:
2,567
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 348
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 44
Weather
What is the weather like in Picayune, MS year-round?
Picayune enjoys a mild Southern climate, with warm summers that reach highs around 91°F and comfortable winters with lows near 39°F. The city receives ample rainfall, averaging nearly 64 inches annually, and residents benefit from 62% sunny days. This pleasant weather supports an active, outdoor lifestyle year-round.
Winter
Min:
39°F
Max:
63°F
Spring
Min:
51°F
Max:
78°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
91°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
81°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
63.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Local households in Picayune have a median income of $43,400, with family incomes averaging $55,100, though about 22% of residents live below the poverty line. Commute times are manageable at just under 30 minutes, and public transportation usage is minimal. Education attainment is solid, with over 81% having completed high school.
Median Income:
$26,000
Household Income:
$43,400
Family Income:
$55,100
Per Capita Income:
$21,400
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$30,200
Poverty Rate:
22.1%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$880
Unemployment Rate:
6.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
29.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.2%
Bachelors or More:
17.2%
Education
How are the schools in Picayune, MS?
Picayune offers a range of educational options, including public schools like Picayune Memorial High and Nicholson Elementary, both with favorable student-teacher ratios. Private education is also available, and nearby Pearl River Community College provides higher education opportunities just 18 miles away. Families can expect accessible and supportive learning environments for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Picayune Memorial High School
Street:
800 Fifth Ave
Phone:
601-798-1380
Students:
1,010
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
Nicholson Elementary School
Street:
1 Dragon Drive
Phone:
601-798-7744
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.3
Private Schools
Name:
Heritage Christian Academy
Street:
12 Sycamore Rd
Phone:
601-798-1744
Students:
230
Colleges
Name:
Pearl River Community College (Poplarville Campus)
City:
Poplarville
State:
MS
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
4,500
Healthcare
Residents have access to Highland Community Hospital, which offers general and emergency services within the city. With 1.8 physicians per 1,000 people and health insurance coverage at 84.5%, most locals find essential medical care readily available. The healthcare index suggests generally accessible and affordable services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Highland Community Hospital
Address:
130 Highland Parkway, Picayune, MS 39466
Phone:
(601) 358-9400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
84.5%
Health Care Index:
66.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Picayune, MS?
Picayune's housing market is affordable, featuring a median home price of $157,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $880. Homeownership is popular, with nearly 69% of residents owning their homes, and the market has shown healthy appreciation over the past year. Vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, indicating a stable market for buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$157,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$880
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
DMV services in Picayune are provided by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, conveniently located on Highway 43 North. Residents can handle licensing, registrations, and other motor vehicle needs locally. The office offers both phone support and online resources for added convenience.
State:
Mississippi
Department:
Mississippi Department of Public Safety
Address:
1102 Highway 43 North, Picayune, MS 39466
Phone:
(601) 799-2865
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.