Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Waveland, MS
Considering a move to Waveland, MS? This friendly Gulf Coast city of about 6,400 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $164,000 and average rents near $875. Residents enjoy a mild, sunny climate with 63% sunny days a year and a quick 23-minute average commute. While crime rates are above the national average, Waveland has easy access to healthcare and schools, making it a relaxed spot for those seeking small-town charm and coastal living at a budget-friendly price point.
Demographics - Waveland, MS
Demographics - Waveland, MS
Waveland is home to about 6,400 residents and features a predominantly White community with a median age of 42.3 years. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a moderate population density, creating a close-knit yet comfortable atmosphere for families and individuals alike.
Population:
6,400
Density:
720 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.3
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
81.4%
Black:
13.9%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
3.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Waveland, MS?
Living in Waveland is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values around $164,000. Residents benefit from affordable housing, low state taxes, and reasonable utilities, making it an attractive option for those seeking value along the Gulf Coast.
Median House Value:
$164,000
Gross Rent:
$875
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,110
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
3%
|
High:
5%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.9
Grocery:
93.4
Housing:
64.5
Utilities:
99.1
Transportation:
90.7
Health Care:
94.2
Miscellaneous:
91.8
Crime
Is Waveland, MS a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Waveland are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 237 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 43 chance of property crime. While safety is a concern, many residents find the community’s small size helps foster neighborhood awareness and vigilance.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
422
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,330
Crime Index:
2,752
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 237
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Waveland, MS year-round?
Waveland enjoys a mild subtropical climate with warm summers, gentle winters, and over 63% sunny days each year. The city receives significant rainfall, averaging about 66 inches annually, making it ideal for those who appreciate lush green surroundings and outdoor living.

Winter
Min:
43°F
Max:
62°F

Spring
Min:
56°F
Max:
76°F

Summer
Min:
73°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
57°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
66.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
The typical household in Waveland earns around $50,100, with a family income averaging $60,200, though nearly 20% of residents live below the poverty line. Commute times are reasonable at about 23 minutes, and most adults have at least a high school diploma, reflecting a stable and accessible community environment.
Median Income:
$37,000
Household Income:
$50,100
Family Income:
$60,200
Per Capita Income:
$25,800
Income Male:
$41,900
Income Female:
$31,200
Poverty Rate:
19.9%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$875
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
23.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
85.8%
Bachelors or More:
18.2%
Education
How are the schools in Waveland, MS?
Families in Waveland benefit from local public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and access to private and higher education options nearby. The presence of both elementary and middle schools, along with a community college within 30 miles, supports lifelong learning opportunities for all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Waveland Elementary School
Street:
1101 St Joseph St
Phone:
228-467-5246
Students:
470
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3
Name:
Bay-Waveland Middle School
Street:
600 Pine St, Bay St Louis
Phone:
228-467-6611
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.9

Private Schools
Name:
Our Lady Academy
Street:
222 S Beach Blvd, Bay St Louis
Phone:
228-467-7048
Students:
295

Colleges
Name:
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
City:
Gulfport
State:
MS
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
8,200
Healthcare
Residents have access to general and emergency medical care at nearby Ochsner Medical Center, with approximately 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people. Most locals are covered by health insurance, ensuring reliable healthcare options in the community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Ochsner Medical Center - Hancock
Address:
149 Drinkwater Rd, Bay St Louis, MS 39520
Phone:
(228) 467-8600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.2%
Health Care Index:
68.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Waveland, MS?
Waveland’s housing market is stable and affordable, with median home prices near $164,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment around $880. High owner-occupancy rates and steady appreciation make it a promising location for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$164,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$880
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
DMV services for Waveland are provided by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety in neighboring Bay St Louis, ensuring convenient access for licensing and vehicle registration. Residents can find up-to-date information and resources on the state DMV website.
State:
Mississippi
Department:
Mississippi Department of Public Safety - Driver Service Bureau
Address:
838 Hwy 90, Bay St Louis, MS 39520
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.