Jackson, MS, a Southern haven, is one of the many great places to live in the region. From renowned restaurants to the fabulous music scene, it’s not a shock that nearly 149,700 people live in Jackson. As more people move to Jackson, it’s important to keep in mind that the median home sale price is $75,000 and the average rent price is $1,061.
But if you’re not sure about living in the heart of Jackson, we’ve got you covered. Redfin has rounded up a list of the 9 best suburbs of Jackson, MS, to consider living in – and they’re all under a 30 mile drive from the city. Let’s see what suburbs are on the list.
#1: Canton
Median home price: $55,500
Average sale price per square foot: $46
Distance from Jackson: 27 miles
Canton, MS homes for sale
Canton, MS apartments for rent
With a median home sale price of $55,500, Canton is first on our list of Jackson suburbs. About a 27 mile drive away from downtown Jackson, Canton is home to roughly 10,900 people. If you’re considering moving to this area, make sure to play golf at one of the courses in town and check out the sites downtown like the Canton Flea Market and the Madison County Courthouse.
#2: Byram
Median home price: $186,500
Average sale price per square foot: $139
Distance from Jackson: 11 miles
Byram, MS homes for sale
Byram, MS apartments for rent
The second suburb on our list is Byram, which is about an 11 mile drive away from downtown Jackson. When living in this suburb of 12,700 people, you can also spend time exploring the charming downtown or checking out one of the local restaurants in Byram.
#3: Clinton
Median home price: $210,000
Average sale price per square foot: $122
Average rent for an apartment: $1,529
Distance from Jackson: 11 miles
Clinton, MS homes for sale
Clinton, MS apartments for rent
Just 11 miles outside of the city, you’ll find yourself in the suburb of Clinton. Even with a population of about 28,100, there are plenty of unique spots to visit in Clinton. If you find yourself moving here, make sure to check out Brighton Park, stop by the Natchez Trace Parkway Sign, and explore the quaint shops in Clinton.
#4: Pearl
Median home price: $219,950
Average sale price per square foot: $134
Average rent for an apartment: $1,411
Distance from Jackson: 6 miles
Pearl, MS homes for sale
Pearl, MS apartments for rent
A little more expensive than Clinton is the suburb of Pearl. There are several top attractions you may want to check out in Jackson suburb. Make sure to shop at the Outlets of Mississippi, play a round of golf at the Pearl Municipal Golf Course, and spend time outdoors at Bright Park, which features walking trails, playgrounds, and open spaces.
#5: Richland
Median home price: $223,000
Average sale price per square foot: $153
Distance from Jackson: 6 miles
Richland, MS homes for sale
Richland, MS apartments for rent
Drive 6 miles outside of Jackson and you’ll find the suburb of Richland, another great area to add to your list. With 7,100 people living in this affordable town, Richland is a great option to consider when looking to stay close to Jackson without living in the city. Living in Richland, you can visit one of the parks in town like Richland Westside Park or grab a meal at one of the many local restaurants.
#6: Brandon
Median home price: $270,450
Average sale price per square foot: $149
Average rent for an apartment: $1,524
Distance from Jackson: 13 miles
Brandon, MS homes for sale
Brandon, MS apartments for rent
Another noteworthy Jackson suburb is Brandon, where you’ll find the home prices are $270,450. With just about 25,100 people living in Brandon, it’s a great suburb to consider living in. Whether you see a show at Brandon Amphitheater, spend time outdoors at Shiloh Park or pick up a pastry at a local bakery, there’s many activities to do and see in this suburb.
#7: Ridgeland
Median home price: $299,000
Average sale price per square foot: $162
Average rent for an apartment: $1,348
Distance from Jackson: 12 miles
Ridgeland, MS homes for sale
Ridgeland, MS apartments for rent
Coming in seventh place on our list of Jackson suburbs is Ridgeland, which is roughly a 12 mile drive into downtown. With a population of roughly 24,300, you’ll be living in a smaller area, but there are no shortage of things to do in Ridgeland. Don’t miss out on having a picnic or enjoying the reservoir views at Old Trace Park, or shop at one of the many shopping centers once moving here.
#8: Madison
Median home price: $390,000
Average sale price per square foot: $162
Average rent for an apartment: $2,024
Distance from Jackson: 15 miles
Madison, MS homes for sale
Madison, MS apartments for rent
If you’ve lived in the Jackson area for a while, you may know our eighth suburb – Madison. Almost 27,700 residents call this suburb home, so you’ll have a fraction of Jackson’s population while remaining only 15 miles from the city. Once moving to Madison you’ll want to enjoy the views from the Reservoir Overlook, explore Simmons Arboretum, or walk along the Natchez Trace Parkway.
#9: Flowood
Median home price: $393,500
Average sale price per square foot: $170
Distance from Jackson: 9 miles
Flowood, MS homes for sale
Flowood, MS apartments for rent
Finishing off our list of Jackson suburbs is none other than Flowood. Only 9 miles away from the city-center, you may just want to consider relocating to Flowood. Close to 10,200 people live in this suburb, but there are plenty of things to do in Flowood. Fun activities to do in Flowood include kayaking on Crystal Lake, exploring Flowood Nature Park, offering hiking trails and a serene natural environment for birdwatching, and experiencing the local dining scene in Flowood.
Methodology: Whether a suburb was under a 30-mile drive from downtown Jackson. Median home sale price data and average rent price from the Redfin Data Center during December 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
Home to the blues, hearty food, and captivating history, Mississippi, also known as the Magnolia State, has something in store for everyone. While Mississippi is full of greatness, every place has its drawbacks. Whether you’re looking at homes for sale in Jackson, apartments in Hattiesburg, or wondering if Mississippi is a gcost oood place to live, we’ve got you covered. Here are ten pros and cons of living in Mississippi before making this state your new home.
Pros of living in Mississippi
1. You can get an affordable higher education
Higher education is an expensive investment anywhere in the U.S. Still, compared to other states, Mississippi has a lower cost of higher education, perfect for anyone looking to stay on budget. Mississippi is the fifth-cheapest state for a college degree for out-of-state students, and even less for those already residing there. Community colleges and private universities can be found throughout the state and offer many options and opportunities for anyone interested.
2. There are many affordable housing options available
Mississippi has relatively low housing costs compared to the rest of the country. The median home sale price is $244,000, and it’s even less if you look at areas outside the capital like Florence. There are plenty of affordable places to live in Mississippi. Along with homes for sale, you’ll find affordable rent prices too. A two-bedroom apartment in Mississippi’s capital Jackson averages $962 compared to popular metros like Seattle, where you’ll find a two-bedroom averaging around $3,234. If you’re deciding which city to call home, using tools like a cost of living calculator will help you make an informed decision and help you budget your expenses.
3. Mississippi is full of history
There are many great places to learn about America’s past, from museums to Civil War battlefields and the capital. Explore the antebellum architecture in the state, like Stanton Hall, which occupies an entire block in downtown Natchez. Or head to Vicksburg National Military Park, which preserves the site of the Civil War Battle of Vicksburg. You’ll learn about the past just about everywhere you go.
4. Nature is abundant in this state
Take a walk through the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at Tishomingo State Park, and view the unique rock formations and trees. Or if you’re searching for amazing views, you’ll want to check out the Mississippi petrified forest. Located near Flora, this 36 million old forest will invite you to immerse yourself in wildflowers, pine, and cedar.
5. Mississippi is a musical state
From jazz, bluegrass, country, gospel, and more, the Magnolia State has a deeply rooted history in music that is prevalent today. The blues originated in the state’s southern plantations and was carried throughout the Civil Rights Movement. Elvis Presley was born in Tupelo in northern Mississippi, where he continued incorporating blues into his songs. You’ll find nightclubs and museums dedicated to the state’s ties with music all throughout the area.
Cons of living in Mississippi
1. Scorching heat and humidity in the summer
During the summer months, Mississippi ranks as one of the hottest and most humid places in the U.S. Temperatures range from mid to high 90s degrees Fahrenheit along with high humidity levels in May through September.
2. Prone to thunderstorms and flooding
The climate and location play a massive role in the risk of natural disasters in Mississippi – especially in the south. You’ll need to prepare for heavy rains that can lead to flooding, winds, and hailstorms. The hail in Mississippi can be massive and can cause damage to your or your property. Before moving to Mississippi, you’ll want to research the flood risk in your area and learn to storm proof your home.
3. Mississippi is a dangerous state to drive in
Mississippi can be a dangerous state to drive in due to its high number of rural roads. Rural roads are four times more dangerous than roads in the city, and Mississippi has many of them.
4. Pesky bugs may be a nuisance in the summer
You’ll want to ensure you have your bug spray in the summer. Mosquitos, ticks, horseflies, deer flies, and more populate in the summer and there are bound to be pesky bugs that won’t leave you alone. To avoid these insects, you’ll want to steer clear of standing water like ponds, lakes, and swampy areas, where they’re sure to lay their eggs. If you want to limit these insects from your home, you’ll want to eliminate water sources and keep your trash locked up.
5. There is flesh-eating bacteria in the coastal waters
Although a rare occurrence, Mississippi is home to flesh-eating bacteria called Vibrio vulnificus which can be life-threatening. Vibrio vulnificus lives in warm coastal waters, so if you have open wounds, including cuts and scrapes, you should consider staying out of brackish water. You can also find these bacteria in raw seafood or its juices, so you’ll want to be cautious when eating these foods.
The pros and cons of living in Mississippi: Bottom line
The Magnolia State is great for those looking for a more affordable place to live. Future residents will enjoy great music, beautiful scenery, and deep history. Although there are significant advantages to living here, there are cons to consider. So If you are thinking of relocating to this state, you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of living in Mississippi to see if it aligns with you and your lifestyle.