Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Water Valley, MS
Thinking of moving to Water Valley, MS? With a welcoming population of just over 3,200, this small town offers affordable living—median home prices are around $98,000 and average rents are just $700. Enjoy shorter commutes (22 minutes), a mild Southern climate with 62% sunny days, and access to local schools and healthcare. While crime rates are a bit higher than average, Water Valley’s charm, low cost of living, and proximity to Oxford make it an appealing choice for those seeking a slower pace and friendly community.
Demographics - Water Valley, MS
Demographics - Water Valley, MS
Water Valley is home to about 3,255 residents, offering a close-knit community with a median age of 41.6 years. The city features a diverse population, primarily White and Black, and has a slightly higher number of females than males. This blend contributes to a welcoming small-town atmosphere suitable for families and individuals alike.
Population:
3,255
Density:
930 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.6
Gender Ratio:
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
60.2%
Black:
37.1%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
2.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Water Valley, MS?
Living in Water Valley is notably affordable, with a median home value of $98,000 and average rents at $700 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious residents. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, helping stretch your dollar further.
Median House Value:
$98,000
Gross Rent:
$700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,190
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$330
State Taxes:
Low:
3%
|
High:
5%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.0
Grocery:
92.5
Housing:
50.1
Utilities:
95.0
Transportation:
83.5
Health Care:
86.0
Miscellaneous:
91.5
Crime
Is Water Valley, MS a safe place to live?
Water Valley experiences a moderate crime rate, with a resident's chance of experiencing property crime around 1 in 50 and violent crime about 1 in 349. While these rates are somewhat higher than national averages, many residents find the community-oriented atmosphere offers a sense of security. Staying aware and engaged in local safety initiatives is recommended.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
286
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,980
Crime Index:
2,266
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 349
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 50
Weather
What is the weather like in Water Valley, MS year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild Southern climate, with warm summers reaching up to 91°F and winters that rarely dip below freezing. The city receives about 58 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 62% sunny days, making it pleasant for outdoor activities year-round. This climate supports a relaxed pace of life and vibrant natural surroundings.
Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
53°F
Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
91°F
Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
58 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The median household income in Water Valley is about $36,950, with a notable portion of residents holding at least a high school diploma. Commutes average around 22 minutes, and the poverty rate is higher than average at 24.6%. The area values community connections, with most neighbors relying on personal vehicles for daily travel.
Median Income:
$28,900
Household Income:
$36,950
Family Income:
$41,200
Per Capita Income:
$19,500
Income Male:
$33,500
Income Female:
$25,800
Poverty Rate:
24.6%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$700
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
22.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.0%
Bachelors or More:
15.4%
Education
How are the schools in Water Valley, MS?
Water Valley provides public K–12 education through Davidson Elementary and Water Valley High School, both featuring favorable student-teacher ratios. There are no private schools locally, but higher education is easily accessible with the University of Mississippi just 19 miles away in Oxford. The community supports lifelong learning for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Davidson Elementary School
Street:
300 Davidson St
Phone:
662-473-1110
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
Water Valley High School
Street:
550 Market St
Phone:
662-473-2468
Students:
390
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Colleges
Name:
University of Mississippi
City:
Oxford
State:
MS
Distance:
19 miles
Students:
22,300
Healthcare
Water Valley offers convenient access to healthcare, including Yalobusha General Hospital right in town and larger medical facilities in nearby Oxford. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 85% health insurance coverage, basic medical needs are well-supported locally. Emergency and general care services are readily available for residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Yalobusha General Hospital
Address:
630 S Main St, Water Valley, MS 38965
Phone:
(662) 473-1411
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi
Address:
1100 Belk Blvd, Oxford, MS 38655
Phone:
(662) 636-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.4%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Water Valley, MS?
The local housing market is highly affordable, with median home prices at $98,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $700. A majority of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a low foreclosure rate. Modest home appreciation and a stable rental market make Water Valley a practical choice for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$98,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$700
Owner Occupied Rate:
63.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle and licensing needs through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, with the main office located in Jackson. The DMV offers a range of driver and vehicle services, and information can be found on the state’s official website. Support is available by phone for questions or appointments.
State:
Mississippi
Department:
Mississippi Department of Public Safety
Address:
1900 East Woodrow Wilson Dr, Jackson, MS 39216
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.