Mississippi’s second-largest city rolls along the coast
Lumber and shipbuilding are intertwined in the history of Gulfport, Mississippi's second-largest city. An abundance of timber in the southern part of the state, coupled with a convenient Gulf Coast location, turned the city into a thriving port at the turn of the 20th century. Gulfport has since transformed into a diverse metropolitan area still anchored to its maritime history. The city of about 72,000 is the heart of the Gulfport-Biloxi Metropolitan Statistical Area, which spreads across four counties and encompasses dozens of cities and towns, including Biloxi and Pascagoula. The coastal beauty — along with roadside attractions like the world’s largest rocking chair — draws in tourists during the summer months, though many visitors find they aren’t satisfied with just one trip. “It’s a beautiful place to live,” says Erica Young, broker and owner of Haus of Bonaparte Realty. “We have a lot of tourist attractions, and it’s great for families and snowbirds. A lot of people come from all over the world to retire here.” The city’s two hospitals, Memorial Health System and Singing River Gulfport, offer plenty of jobs for residents still in the workforce. Likewise, shipbuilding remains a prominent industry, along with manufacturing and pharmaceuticals. Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi is home to 5,000 active-duty service members and serves as a significant presence in the community.
Gulfport anchors the Mississippi Gulf Coast with beaches and attractions.
Gulfport thrives with its shipbuilding and lumber industries.
Singing River Hospital serves the Gulfport community with advanced medical facilities.
Memorial Hospital in Gulfport is a major employer in the region.
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Gulfport’s beaches, waterways and nightlife
The area is home to the world’s largest man-made beach, a 26-mile stretch of ivory sand that passes through several towns. Marinas and fishing piers jut into the Gulf, inviting anglers and boaters to cast off. A ferry shuttles passengers to Ship Island throughout spring, summer and fall, and Long Beach and Pass Christian offer tranquil spots for relaxing and sunbathing. The Mississippi Aquarium tells the story of the Magnolia State’s waterways, from the coastline to the Delta to the bayous — and, of course, the Mighty Mississippi River. Love of all things aquatic extends to Ocean Adventures Marine Park near Bayou Bernard and Big Lake. Drier fun can be had at museums like TrainTastic! and Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, both of which appeal to the grade-school set. Soccer, baseball and softball fields are ensconced within Gulfport Sportsplex, which hosts tournaments at the local, state, regional and national levels. At Keesler Federal Park, baseball fans cheer on the Biloxi Shuckers, a Minor League team. The Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center hosts the Mississippi Sea Wolves, a Federal Prospects Hockey League team. Gaming and live entertainment await at the dozen casinos that glitter along the coastline, and locals describe the public art scene in Fishbone Alley as an “urban living room” where artists can share their murals and paintings.
Gulfport beaches provide stunning sunsets and family-friendly fun.
Visitors to the Mississippi Aquarium enjoy interactive exhibits and aquatic animals.
Families enjoy interactive learning at Gulfport’s Lynn Meadows Discovery Center.
Biloxi’s Sea Wolves bring excitement to the Mississippi Coast Coliseum near Gulfport.
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Gulfport School District has a Niche grade of A
Area schools consistently receive positive reviews from parents, with Gulfport and Pascagoula-Gautier School Districts earning A grades from Niche. Some students in the greater metropolitan area might attend schools in the A-minus-rated Harrison and Hancock County School Districts or Stone County School District, which earns a B-plus. Most private schools in Gulfport have a Christian affiliation. Examples include the B-plus-rated Christian Collegiate Academy and St. James Catholic School, which is currently unrated by Niche.
West Elementary School in Gulfport serves 523 students in grades PK-5.
Gulfport Central Middle School serves approximately 585 students in grades 6-8.
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Traditional and contemporary builds, some with water views
The median cost for a home in the area is about $230,000, well below the national median of $416,700. “There’s no zoning, so you can have these mansions where the lowest price is one million, then across the street there are trailer parks,” Young says. Small cottages and fixer-uppers in the West Gulfport area near downtown are priced in the $50,000 to $150,000 range. Anniston Avenue is an established area on the Mississippi City side, featuring older traditional homes that cost $160,000 to $250,000. Custom-built contemporary houses on in-demand streets like Bayou View Drive command prices from $350,000 to $500,000. Luxury custom builds with water views start around $600,000 and top out in the $2 million range. Styles and pricing are pretty consistent throughout Gulfport, Mississippi City and Biloxi, but there may be variances in outlying communities. For example, Diamondhead on Bay St. Louis began as a resort community with a Hawaiian theme, and houses with A-frames and low thatched roofs still populate the winding streets. Historic mansions on Scenic Drive in Pass Christian can sell for up to $4 million, while Pascagoula might offer four-bedroom waterfront properties for around $750,000.
Waterfront homes in Gulfport offer stunning views of the Gulf.
Gulfport offers a variety of homes, from cozy cottages to modern builds.
Luxury builds in Gulfport offer spacious layouts and upscale amenities.
Gulfport features traditional homes with classic Southern charm.
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Sipping, strolling and shopping in Gulfport
Gulfport has restaurants to suit all palates, but seafood reigns supreme, especially in the eateries along Beach Boulevard. Chain restaurants are scattered throughout Edgewater Mall, a one-stop shopping destination. 25th Avenue, a thoroughfare that runs perpendicular to the coastline, is a shopping and dining corridor rich with art galleries, boutiques and antique stores. More retail therapy is available at Crossroads Center and Gulfport Premium Outlets, both gathered around the junction of Interstates 10 and 49. In the city’s “leisure and recreation” districts — found in downtown Gulfport, Mississippi City, Downtown North and Bayou Bernard — adults over 21 can procure alcoholic beverages in to-go cups for an evening of sipping and strolling.
Edgewater Mall in Gulfport offers shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Shoppers enjoy a variety of stores at Gulfport Premium Outlets.
Elephant In The Room in Gulfport offers unique antique treasures.
Gulfport’s 25th Avenue connects the city to the waterfront.
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Location, transportation and surrounding towns
While Gulfport’s population hovers around 70,000 people, the metro area is home to more than 420,000. Residents who thrive on the excitement of a bigger city will prefer to settle in Gulfport or Biloxi, while those who seek a quiet lifestyle might feel more at home in Pass Christian or Waveland. Coast Transit Authority (CTA) buses serve the area, with most routes focusing on the museums and entertainment venues along Beach Boulevard, also known as Highway 90. Harrison County recently approved a bike route for the stretch of Beach Boulevard from Pass Christian to Gulfport, and Diamondhead features the largest buffered bike lane in the state. Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport is served by six major airlines and offers year-round direct flights to Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston. I-10 connects with I-49 near the airport to provide access to nearby cities like New Orleans and Mobile. Road projects on the I-10 corridor will negatively impact traffic for a few years but eventually bring new job opportunities and retail options to the area. On a related note, a $100 million investment has led to a new multi-purpose space with apartments and a downtown parking garage at the corner of Interstate 49 and Highway 90, providing housing opportunities to residents who need access to the harbor.
Cruisin’ the Coast of Mississippi
Every October since 1996, antique and classic cars have zoomed to the Mississippi Gulf Coast for Cruisin’ the Coast, “America’s Largest Block Party.” During the weeklong event, auto enthusiasts show off their rides on the 30 miles of beachside highway from Bay St. Louis to Pascagoula. Each designated stop is set up as a town festival, with live music and food vendors. Other local events include November’s Gumbo Fest at Centennial Plaza, Gulfport Harbor Winter Lights Festival and Pascagoula’s Mississippi Gulf Coast Blues & Heritage Festival. The tiny haven of Pass Christian is popular for its busy social calendar, hosting music events and a huge Mardi Gras parade.
Other things to consider
All along the Gulf Coast, summers are long, hot and oppressive. During the short winter season, temperatures rarely stray below 40. In June through November, hurricane season brings strong winds and a high flood risk. FBI data shows slightly higher-than-average crime rates for the region.
Written By
Adrienne Ryan
Photography Contributed By
Dimitri Fevrier
Video By
Bob Yukich
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Holly Lemoine-Raymond,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Gulfport, MS sell after 46 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Gulfport, MS over the last 12 months is $232,000, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Spacious 4BR Home with Private Suite & Screened Porch in Chapelwood Nearly 3,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed single-story living space highlight this 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home in the desirable Chapelwood subdivision of Gulfport. The spacious floor plan offers multiple living areas, a private second suite with its own full bath, and a layout designed for both everyday comfort and
Located in the heart of Bayou View, one of the Mississippi Gulf Coast's most desirable neighborhoods, this LARGE home on an exceptional space with upside potential. Step inside to find a spacious layout featuring a living room with fireplace, a generous family room open to the kitchen, and an abundance of cabinetry paired with granite countertops. The home offers three large bedrooms with room to
Completely Renovated 1920s Mediterranean Gem Just Minutes from Gulfport's White Sand Beaches - No Flood Zone! Step into timeless charm with this beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 2-bath Mediterranean-style home, perfectly blending historic character with modern upgrades. Situated just minutes from the vibrant Gulfport waterfront and its award-winning beaches, this home offers both location and
This beautiful one-level Alton plan welcomes you with a stunning entry foyer, 10' ceilings in the main living areas, and 8' interior doors throughout. The owner's suite features a spa-like ensuite with a fully tiled oversized walk-in shower with dual shower heads, soaking tub, split vanities, and a spacious walk-in closet with custom built-ins.The gourmet kitchen boasts stainless steel GE
Welcome to 4608 Finley St., Gulfport, MS -- where coastal living meets space, style, and opportunity. Just a block from the beach, this beautifully designed property sits on two full lots, offering a rare oversized yard you simply won't find this close to the water. Whether you're searching for the perfect full-time residence or a high-performing investment property, this one checks every box.
Beautiful, practically new construction in North Swan Estates with a spacious interior lot and a 10-year structural warranty. This craftsman-style home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and a bright open layout designed for both everyday living and entertaining. This home is being sold fully furnished as shown in the photos. Bring your clothes and call it good!Step into the inviting foyer that
Gorgeous, Trendy Beachside Home - Built in 2021. Step into coastal luxury with this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering 2,000 sq. ft. of modern design and effortless comfort — just steps from the white sandy beaches! This home boasts an open-concept floor plan filled with natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere throughout. The fully furnished interior blends contemporary
Skip the wait and step into a home where everything is already done. Located in the sought-after Landon Green community, this 5-bedroom, 3-bath home offers over 3,300 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, packed with upgrades buyers typically have to pay extra for in new construction. Priced below a recent appraisal and featuring over $100,000 in upgrades, this home delivers
Welcome to 11999 Ol Oaks, where charm meets convenience and curb appeal comes standard. This isn't just a house—it's a whole vibe. From the moment you pull up, the bold exterior and inviting front porch let you know this one's got personality. Step inside to find a bright, open layout that flows effortlessly from room to room, with natural light that doesn't quit and finishes that say, ''Yes, I'm
There are condos—and then there are condos! PRICE REDUCED!If you prefer a smaller, friendly community over large complexes, this beautifully updated condo is for you. Features include a totally renovated kitchen and baths, wood flooring throughout, formal dining, a separate living room, and a breakfast area overlooking the private patio. French doors open to the patio—perfect for gardening
Welcome to your slice of the Mississippi Gulf Coast! Just two blocks from the beach, this ideally located property comes fully furnished and has a strong history as a successful Airbnb. It also offers beautiful Gulf views from both the front porch and the upper balcony—features guests and owners love.Whether you're looking for a proven short-term rental, a second home, or a full-time coastal
Affordable, Low-Maintenance Home - Available for Summer Move-In Spring is here, and this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home in the Turtle Creek community offers a great opportunity for buyers looking for an affordable place to call home on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The home is currently tenant-occupied through the end of June, making it ideal for buyers planning ahead for a summer
Welcome to this spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering 2,100 square feet of comfortable living in the desirable Great Southern Golf Club subdivision. Step inside to find a large formal dining room that flows seamlessly into an oversized kitchen featuring abundant cabinet and counter space—perfect for entertaining or everyday living. Just off the main living areas, a huge sunroom fills the home
This spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers 1,951 sq ft of living space on a generous 0.42-acre lot in Gulfport, MS--just two miles from the beach and minutes from everything the Gulf Coast has to offer. Designed for flexibility, the property includes an attached mother-in-law apartment featuring its own private entrance, full kitchen, and laundry area. This setup is perfect for extended family,
Southern Charm Meets Coastal Living - Just two Blocks from the Beach! Imagine your home nestled beneath a majestic Southern Magnolia and a centuries-old Live Oak, surrounded by a white picket fence lined with wisteria, camellias, and azaleas in full bloom. Located just blocks from the beach, Mississippi Aquarium, Gulfport Harbor, casinos, and coastal dining, this one has it all! Step inside to
Furnished Waterfront Townhome on Bayou Bernard - All Utilities + WiFi Included | Month-to-Month Rental. Live the waterfront lifestyle in this fully furnished 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome located directly on Bayou Bernard in deep water—perfect for boaters, professionals, or anyone seeking comfort and convenience with a view. This beautifully maintained townhome features: High ceilings and luxury
This fully furnished two-story townhomes offer beach views, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a 1-car garage with all utilities and wifi included. Military per diem honored. With just a short walk to Biloxi's white sand beaches, Lost Garden Villas offers modern living in an incredible serene setting. These modern townhomes offer a kitchen with shaker-style cabinetry, quartz countertops and
Fully Furnished- 3 bed- 3 bath in a Gated Community with swimming pool- Utilities and Wifi included. The unit is located within the Century Oaks complex, which is a private, gated community. The community is highly desirable, as it is within walking distance of the beach and a short drive to Gulfport's casinos, restaurants, and main entertainment areas.
Live the coastal dream in this freshly updated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condominium on the 7th floor of the prestigious Legacy Towers. This fully furnished retreat offers breathtaking Gulf views from the moment you step inside. The open floor plan is filled with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows and features contemporary coastal finishes throughout. The modern kitchen is appointed with
Beach Front Resort Living at its finest at Legacy Towers Condominiums! This fully-furnished 2 bedroom, 2 bath unit is perfectly situated on the 5th floor in Tower II of the Legacy. Located not too high and not too low, this condo is just at the right level for a perfect scenic view from your own private balcony. From stainless steel kitchen appliances, to bamboo flooring in the living room, to
Available May 1! Stunning views of the Gulf from this beautiful home that is walking distance to the beach! Soak up the coastal breezes, watch the sunrise and sunset while relaxing on the large front porch. Ready for you to call home, with a spacious floor plan, marble countertops, stainless appliances, lots of storage and gorgeous, yet comfortable furnishings. The master bedroom is spacious with
Brand-new construction in Gulfport's desirable High Point community with 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, with approximately 2,204 sq ft of living space. Step into modern comfort with wood-look ceramic tile flooring throughout the main living areas, carpet in the bedrooms, stainless steel kitchen appliances, and an open floor plan designed for ease and style. The primary suite offers a walk-in
Come home to this freshly updated condominium on the 4th floor of the prestigious Legacy Towers in Gulfport. This bright and inviting fully furnished residence features fresh paint and brand new flooring in the bedrooms, meaning there is no carpet in the entire unit. The open floor plan includes a comfortable living area that flows into the kitchen, complete with a granite island, stainless steel
Discover 3 BR, 2 BA luxury living on this second-floor oasis that boasts infinite Gulf views! The panoramic windows flood the condo with natural light and offer breathtaking views from the living and dining areas. And don't forget the private balcony - accessible from both the living area and the master bedroom - where you can relax and let the Gulf breeze envelop you. This beautiful waterfront
Experience breathtaking Gulf views from this 10th floor condo located in Legacy Tower II! This unit offers 2-bedrooms, 2-baths, a bonus room and wet bar, and is fully furnished. So bring your bags and be at home as soon as you walk through the door. Amenities include two outdoor pools, an inside pool and hot tub, and a fitness center. Entertainment, restaurants and shopping just a short drive
Spacious college park home with recently replaced carpet and hardwood floors. Single garage, dead end street. Pets allowed with breed, size and number restrictions. No Section 8 or vouchers.
2 story duplex with 1 bedroom on first floor. New paint and flooring and many updated fixtures. Close to Hwy 605/Cowan Lorraine Road. No Section 8 or vouchers, No Smoking. Pets allowed with breed/size/number restrictions. Photos show property under construction.
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