How Much Is Rent in Mississippi? A Cost Breakdown
Explore a comprehensive guide to rental costs in Mississippi. Gain clarity on what to expect across the state and the factors shaping housing prices.
Understanding rental costs is an important aspect of financial planning. In Mississippi, the cost of renting a home can vary depending on numerous factors, presenting a diverse landscape for prospective tenants. This article explores the general rental costs across the state, highlights geographical variations, and discusses the underlying elements that influence these prices.
Mississippi’s Average Rental Costs
As of August 2025, the overall average rent for all bedroom counts and property types in Mississippi is around $1,500 per month, positioning it among states with generally affordable housing compared to national figures. A studio apartment typically costs approximately $947 per month, while a one-bedroom unit averages around $987 monthly. For larger accommodations, a two-bedroom apartment generally rents for about $1,140 per month, and a three-bedroom rental can be around $1,356 or more.
Rent Variation by Geographic Area
Rental prices in Mississippi exhibit notable variations across different geographic areas, with metropolitan centers often commanding higher rates than smaller towns or rural locations. For instance, in Jackson, the state capital, the average rent is approximately $934 per month. A one-bedroom apartment in Jackson averages around $934, while a two-bedroom unit is about $1,113.
Southaven, located near the Tennessee border, generally has higher rental costs. The average rent in Southaven is around $1,342 per month. One-bedroom apartments in Southaven average about $1,342, with two-bedroom units costing approximately $1,447 monthly.
Along the Gulf Coast, Gulfport shows an average rent of about $921 per month, where a one-bedroom averages $921 and a two-bedroom is around $1,068. Biloxi, another coastal city, has an average rent of approximately $1,024 per month, with studio units at $733, one-bedrooms at $1,024, and two-bedrooms at $1,192.
Hattiesburg’s average rent is about $922 per month, with one-bedroom units averaging $922 and two-bedroom units at $1,087.
Key Factors Influencing Rent Prices
The local economy plays a significant role, as areas with thriving job markets and higher average incomes often see increased demand for housing, which can drive up rental rates. Conversely, economic downturns or weaker job markets can lead to reduced demand and potentially lower rents.
The balance between housing supply and demand also directly impacts rental costs. In locations where the number of available rental properties is limited and tenant demand is high, landlords can typically charge higher rents. Conversely, an oversupply of rental units or decreased demand can lead to landlords adjusting prices downward to attract tenants.
Additionally, the specific characteristics of a property, such as its age, condition, size, and the presence of amenities like parking or a gym, influence its rental value. Proximity to desirable features such as city centers, business districts, quality schools, and access to shopping and entertainment also contributes to higher rental prices.