Living & Working in Gulfport
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $190,000 . Buying analysis suggests potential savings over renting for long-term residents.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
Orange Grove
SUBURBANDowntown Gulfport
URBANQuick Decision Guide
Major HVAC Employers
Top-Rated School Districts in Gulfport, MS
- Harrison County School District: Serves 14,355 students across 26 schools, covering grades K-12. Source
- the area School District: Enrolls 6,113 students in the city. Source
- Long Beach School District: Nearby district with high marks, serving families in the region. Source
Childcare Costs in Gulfport, MS
- Daycare: Average starting cost is $14.48 per hour, with monthly rates typically ranging from $390 to $800 depending on the facility. Source
- Nanny: Monthly costs average between $1,200 and $2,500, depending on hours and experience. Source
Recommended Pediatricians and Family Clinics
- Children's of Mississippi Gulf Coast: Offers specialized pediatric care from birth through adolescence. [Source](https://umc.edu/Childrens/Childrens-of-Mississippi-G
Work-Life Balance Culture
Gulfport, MS, offers a laid-back work-life balance culture, typical of coastal Southern cities. The city's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico encourages outdoor activities and a slower pace of life. Many residents work in industries like tourism, healthcare, or the Port of here, with flexible schedules common in seasonal roles. The community prioritizes family and leisure, with local businesses often closing early on weekends.
Fitness Facilities
- Gyms:
- Anytime Fitness (24/7 access, $40–$50/month)
- Planet Fitness (basic membership $10/month, Black Card $22.99/month)
- Parks & Trails:
- Jones Park: A waterfront park with walking paths and fitness stations.
- Gulfport Sportsplex: Features trails, sports fields, and a disc golf course.
- Long Beach Harbor Boardwalk: A 1.5-mile scenic trail along the coast.
Dining Costs
- Lunch: $8–$15 (e.g., The Chimneys for Southern cuisine, Half Shell Oyster House for seafood)
- Dinner: $15–$30 (e.g., Brick & Spoon for brunch/dinner, Patio 44 for upscale casual)
- Drinks: $5–$10 for cocktails
Financial Facts for Gulfport, MS
- State Income Tax Rate: Mississippi has a progressive income tax rate ranging from 0% to 5% for 2023, depending on income brackets. The highest rate applies to taxable income over $10,000. For details, refer to the Mississippi Department of Revenue.
- Property Tax Average: The average effective property tax rate in Harrison County, where Gulfport is located, is approximately 0.77%. For a median home value of $172,900, this translates to annual taxes of around $1,326. More information is available from the Harrison County Tax Assessor.
- Cost of Living Compared to New Orleans: Gulfport's cost of living is approximately 15% lower than New Orleans, LA, making it a more affordable option for residents. This includes lower housing, transportation, and utility costs. For a detailed comparison, see Military OneSource.
- Growing Industries Creating Jobs: Key industries driving job growth in Gulfport include information technology, healthcare, and tourism. The city's proximity to the Gulf Coast and military installations also supports sectors like logistics and defense