8 Things to Know Before Moving to Biloxi, MS

An estimated 49,061 people call Biloxi, Mississippi home. Many families and young professionals live in Biloxi, giving it a unique blend of urban and suburban charm, and the residents there tend to hold moderate political views. Let’s talk about eight things to know before moving to Biloxi, MS!

1. Strangers would strike up a conversation

Everyone in Biloxi will look at you curiously, smile, and ask, “Hello, how are you?” the moment you set foot on their soil. In many parts of the United States, striking up a conversation with a complete stranger or even greeting them might be seen as unusual, but in Biloxi, it’s considered polite. Everyone will greet you with a friendly smile and friendly hello, no matter who you are.

Try not to wince and return the compliment if it is offered.

2. Biloxi is a melting pot of histories

Biloxi’s rich history covers a wide range of periods and cultures, from the African Diaspora and Native Americans through the development of Mississippi and the modern day. Although you may have heard bad things about Biloxi, there are good things about the city as well. In the end, you need to put in your own time and effort into something.

Around the city, you can visit a number of museums and other historical sites that will teach you all about Mississippi’s fascinating past and fascinating present.

3. The Biloxi Lighthouse is a popular tourist destination

The Biloxi Lighthouse, a city landmark, serves as a symbol of the perseverance of locals over the years. The cast-iron landmark is a popular tourist destination along the Mississippi shore. The Biloxi lighthouse is located on Beach Boulevard (U.S. 90). 

Even though it was constructed in the 19th century (in Baltimore and transported to Biloxi in 1848), it has weathered more than its fair share of storms. To learn all there is to know about Biloxi’s past, stop by the Biloxi Visitors Center, which is located directly across the street from the Biloxi lighthouse.

4. Visit the Ohr-O’keefe Museum of Art

At Harrah’s Gulf Coast Casino on Beach Boulevard lies the George E. Ohr gallery (Ohr-O’keefe Museum of Art), a must-see for art lovers. The city has several other art museums to choose from. If you find yourself in the city’s East End, stop by the Maritime History Museum. 

When Hurricane Katrina hit, Biloxi transformed from a sleepy fishing village into a bustling tourist destination.

5. Take part in recreational fishing

Recreational fishing at one of Biloxi’s several city-owned piers is a popular pastime. Spend the day fishing in the Biloxi River, the back bay, or the Gulf of Mexico by renting a boat. Go deep-sea fishing on a charter. 

The Betsy Ann Riverboat, docked near the Golden Nugget, is a great option for a relaxing trip. You can also attend the Billfish festival, a popular one in the area.

6. Biloxi produces more than half of the nation’s shrimp

Biloxi, which was once dubbed the “Seafood Capital of the World,” currently accounts for 69% of the United States’ domestic shrimp production. Anyone interested in learning more about the area’s storied shrimp industry can do so by booking a Biloxi Shrimping Trip. 

Take a trip on the Sailfish for 70 minutes and fish for shrimp, blue crabs, flounder, squid, and more in the Mississippi Sound. Before releasing the catch back into the ocean, your guide will go through each creature caught. While out on the sea, you can sometimes catch a glimpse of dolphins. 

7. The cost of living is lower than the national average

At an index of 82.2, the cost of living in Biloxi is 20% less than the national average. The median annual income of Biloxi homeowners is $56,472, whereas the annual cost of living for a single person in Biloxi is $35,608. This includes the price of housing, food, child care, transportation, healthcare, taxes, and other essentials.

The median home price in the city is $207,525, much less than the national average of $428,000. Your dollar goes a lot further if you choose to live in Biloxi.

8. One of the highest crime rates in the country

With 52 crimes reported for every 1,000 residents, Biloxi has one of the highest crime rates in the United States, topping even the largest cities. You have a 1 in 246 probability of becoming a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 19 chance of becoming a victim of property crime in this area.

The violent crime rate in Biloxi is 30, while the national average is 22.7. The property crime rate is 79.6, while the average in the US is 35.4. This city clearly has some issues with crime.

To Sum it All Up

Living in Biloxi comes with advantages such as the low cost of living, access to popular tourist destinations, rich historical background, and friendly people. However, the crime rate is on the high side, and that’s definitely something to consider.