Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Piney Woods, MS
Considering a move to Piney Woods, MS? This small, historic community of about 500 residents offers affordable living with a median home price of just $85,000 and average rents around $750. Enjoy a mild Southern climate with 63% sunny days and easy access to local schools and healthcare in nearby Hattiesburg or Jackson. While crime rates are close to national averages, the area boasts a strong sense of community and rural charm, with reasonable commute times and a cost of living well below the national index.
Demographics - Piney Woods, MS
Demographics - Piney Woods, MS
Piney Woods is a small community of about 500 residents, with a predominantly Black population and a median age of 35. The area features a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, creating a close-knit, culturally rich environment. Its moderate population density offers a blend of rural tranquility and community connection.
Population:
500
Density:
90 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
15%
Black:
80%
Asian:
1%
Others:
4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Piney Woods, MS?
Piney Woods offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $85,000 and average rent at $750. The cost of living index sits well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families. Everyday expenses, including utilities and groceries, remain manageable for most residents.
Median House Value:
$85,000
Gross Rent:
$750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$280
State Taxes:
Low:
3%
|
High:
5%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.7
Grocery:
91.5
Housing:
57.4
Utilities:
94.1
Transportation:
87.0
Health Care:
90.3
Miscellaneous:
89.5
Crime
Is Piney Woods, MS a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Piney Woods are comparable to the national average, with a low incidence of violent crime and a moderate chance of property crime. Residents enjoy a sense of safety, though it's wise to take standard precautions. The community’s small size contributes to a generally secure environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
165
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,420
Crime Index:
1,585
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 606
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Piney Woods, MS year-round?
Piney Woods experiences mild winters with lows around 36°F and warm summers peaking near 92°F, complemented by 63% sunny days annually. The region receives about 56 inches of rainfall each year, supporting lush Southern landscapes. Seasonal changes are gentle, making outdoor activities enjoyable year-round.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
53°F
Max:
80°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
79°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
56 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Local households typically have a median income of $39,000, with about 23.8% of residents living below the poverty line. Most adults hold at least a high school diploma, and the area maintains a relaxed pace with average commute times of around 27 minutes. The community values connection and offers a welcoming, neighborly atmosphere.
Median Income:
$26,500
Household Income:
$39,000
Family Income:
$42,500
Per Capita Income:
$17,200
Income Male:
$30,000
Income Female:
$24,000
Poverty Rate:
23.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$750
Unemployment Rate:
6.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
27.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.7%
Bachelors or More:
17.2%
Education
How are the schools in Piney Woods, MS?
Education in Piney Woods includes local charter and private boarding options, as well as access to the larger Rankin County School District. Students benefit from small class sizes and dedicated teachers, while nearby colleges like Hinds Community College and Jackson State University offer higher education within a short drive. The area supports lifelong learning and educational growth.
Public Schools
Name:
Piney Woods School (Charter/Boarding)
Street:
5096 US 49 S
Phone:
601-845-2214
Students:
200
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Name:
Rankin County School District (serves area)
Street:
1220 Apple Park Place, Brandon, MS 39042
Phone:
601-825-5590
Students:
19,000 (district)
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8
Private Schools
Name:
Piney Woods School (Private/Boarding)
Street:
5096 US 49 S
Phone:
601-845-2214
Students:
200
Colleges
Name:
Hinds Community College
City:
Raymond
State:
MS
Distance:
25 miles
Students:
11,000
Name:
Jackson State University
City:
Jackson
State:
MS
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
7,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to major hospitals in nearby Hattiesburg and Jackson, ensuring quality care is within reach. About 89% of locals are covered by health insurance, and there are 1.1 physicians per 1,000 people. The area maintains a moderate healthcare index, providing essential services for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Forrest General Hospital
Address:
6051 US Hwy 49, Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Phone:
(601) 288-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Mississippi Baptist Medical Center
Address:
1225 N State St, Jackson, MS 39202
Phone:
(601) 968-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.4%
Health Care Index:
66.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Piney Woods, MS?
The housing market in Piney Woods is highly affordable, with a median home price of $85,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of 71%. Renters can find two-bedroom options for about $750 per month, and the area sees slow but steady home appreciation. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates reflect a stable, accessible market.
Median Home Price:
$85,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$750
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
DMV services for Piney Woods residents are provided by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety in Jackson. The office offers driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, and other essential services with convenient access via phone or online. Residents can expect straightforward support for their vehicle and licensing needs.
State:
Mississippi
Department:
Mississippi Department of Public Safety
Address:
1900 East Woodrow Wilson, Jackson, MS 39216
Phone:
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.