Why Live in Diamondhead
Diamondhead, Mississippi, is a coastal town with a unique Hawaiian-inspired atmosphere, situated about 20 miles west of Gulfport. Developed in the late 1960s, Diamondhead features Polynesian-style architecture, including A-frames and wide-hipped roofs, alongside newer Acadian-style and contemporary homes. The town is bordered by Bay St. Louis and the Jourdan River, offering ample opportunities for water recreation such as kayaking, boating, and fishing. Residents can enjoy public swimming pools and Twin Lakes Pavilion and Park. The Hancock County School District serves the area and is highly rated. Diamondhead's commercial activity is concentrated around the Interstate 10 corridor, with chain restaurants, supermarkets, and local bars on Kapalama Drive. The town is car-dependent, with no public transportation, but boasts Mississippi’s largest buffered bike lane stretching 8 miles. Major employers include healthcare centers and NASA’s Stennis Space Center. Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport is 20 miles away, and New Orleans is 60 miles southwest, accessible via I-10. Annual events like the “Blessing of the Classics” and Paddle Paradise add to the local attractions. Summers are hot and humid, and the area is vulnerable to hurricanes from June through November.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a home in Diamondhead, MS?
The median rent for a home in Diamondhead, MS is $1,560 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of May 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while townhouses and single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Diamondhead, MS?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Diamondhead, MS, a household needs to earn roughly $62,400 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,560 per month in Diamondhead, MS, renters typically need to show $4,680 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Diamondhead, MS?
In Diamondhead, MS, the price-to-rent ratio is 13.3, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
Rental Home Trends in Diamondhead, MS
There are currently 1 homes available for rent in Diamondhead, MS. The median rent is $1,560 per month, with single-family homes renting at $2,000, townhouses at $1,650 and condos at $1,325.
Number of Homes for Rent
1
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,000
Median Townhouse Rent
$1,650