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
James Marble,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Gulfport, MS sell after 45 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Gulfport, MS over the last 12 months is $225,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Cute 3BD/2BA home just blocks from the beach with no flood insurance required. SPACIOUS, open concept living room/dining room/kitchen with a large,fenced backyard and shed. Inside laundry. Covered carport. HVAC replaced in 2018. NEW ROOF in 2025.
Split bedroom home with updated flooring, stainless steel appliances, large family room with vaulted ceiling, large primary bedroom with separate tub and shower and much more.
Welcome to this charming coastal cottage, ideally located within walking distance of the beautiful white sandy beaches of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This cozy yet spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and coastal living. Currently fully furnished and operating as a highly successful VRBO, this property presents an excellent turnkey investment
Beautiful 4BD/2.5BA home in north Gulfport. Open living room and dining space. Large kitchen with farmhouse sink, pantry, and stainless appliances. Primary suite has a huge closet and super functional bathroom space with a soaking tub and tiled shower. Two bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs. Fully fenced yard with covered patio. Two-car garage. Close to Hwy. 49 & I-10.
Buyer Agent and Buyer to verify all information. Please call listing agent to schedule all viewings. This versatile 4-bedroom, 3-bath residence 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 the vibrant Gulf Coast lifestyle. Designed with flexibility in mind, the property includes an attached apartment featuring its
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
Beautiful furnished townhouse in like new condition! Just a block from the beach, it is a perfect vacation home, short term rental or permanent home. 3 bedrooms/3baths, an open living and kitchen plan and a fabulous covered deck to enjoy entertaining, etc. Gated community with a pool. Roof replaced Aug. 2023. The furniture will convey with the property, making it move-in ready!
Welcome to this beautifully updated 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo in the sought after Legacy Villas, a gated community just minutes from the beach. This spacious home features a desirable split floor plan, a double car garage (with tons of extra built in storage), new windows, a new A/C and a rare south facing balcony that provides year-round enjoyment of the Gulf breeze. With neutral paint colors, new
Coastal Living at Its Best! Flip-flop distance to the beach, this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience—all on one easy-living level. Enjoy the added bonus of a private garage and a bright, open floor plan perfect for entertaining or relaxing after a day in the sun. Located in a vibrant community, you'll have access to two sparkling pools, a
Spacious family home on a quiet cul de sac near shopping, dining and entertainment! 3 nice sized bedrooms and 2 full baths. Enjoy the large fenced in back yard for family gatherings and save money on power with the solar panels! Not in a flood zone and roof is only 5 years old!!
Here's the home you've been waiting for—modern, stylish, and move-in ready. Built in 2023 and set on a corner lot, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath beauty stands out with its bright open layout, upgraded finishes, and incredible indoor-outdoor living spaces. Inside, natural light fills the great room, highlighting the high ceilings, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and a spacious design that is perfect for
Coastal charm meets modern comfort in this stunning, move in ready home that feels brand new. Step inside and you'll be welcomed by a bright foyer that opens into a spacious living room, complete with a cozy fireplace and custom built in shelving. The open layout flows seamlessly into the dining area and kitchen, where electric appliances and a brand-new dishwasher make everyday living
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
Nearly New 2023 Home Under $170K — Affordable, Modern, Move-In Ready (Tenant in place through June 2026 at $1,600/month) Stop renting and start building equity with this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home in the Turtle Creek community. Built in 2023, it features modern finishes, durable vinyl flooring, a bright open layout, and a clean, efficient kitchen. All major appliances
MOVE IN SPECIAL: $200 OFF first month's rent plus $800 deposit for December move-ins! This spacious downstairs 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom duplex unit offers approximately 1,100 square feet of living space. And location convenience. Section 8 is welcome. If you're looking for affordability and convenience, this is it! Hospitals: Garden Park Medical Center is about (2.5 mi). Airport: Gulfport-Biloxi
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.
Furnished 2BR Home - Walk to Beach | Near Memorial Hospital, Keesler AFB & Navy Seabee Base Furnished | Utilities + WiFi Included Perfect for mid term stays. Whether you're on rotation at Memorial, TDY, or simply seeking a clean, quiet space near everything—this home checks all the boxes. 2 Bedrooms• Primary bedroom with queen bed, blackout shades, dresser, and large closet• Second
Fully Furnished- 3 bed- 2 bath in a Gated Community: 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.
Adorable cottage just a short block from the beach but high and dry! In a very quiet neighborhood. Not in a flood zone! This home features hardwood floors in living areas and master bedroom, new carpet in the other 2 bedrooms. New appliances and granite in the kitchen and a great deck off the back to enjoy your coffee or a cocktail! Plenty of yard to enjoy as well.
FULLY FURNISHED- 2 BED 2.5 BATH (3 MONTH RENTAL) - UTILITIES/WIFI INCLUDED! Each bedroom has its own private bathroom. Just blocks from the beach and easy access to I10, Dinning, Entertainment, and Shopping.
What's the next best thing to living on the top floor? Living on the floor just below it—with one of the largest balconies in the building! This exceptional, fully furnished 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom condominium is located on the 13th floor of the prestigious Legacy Towers. This residence has been beautifully updated with modern finishes, including no carpet—enjoy stylish wood-look and tile flooring
Live the coastal dream in this freshly updated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condominium on the 7th floor of the prestigious Legacy Towers. Available in January, 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
Spacious college park home with 2 living areas and also enclosed rear porch with a/d. Home has fenced yard and double carport. Pets considered with breed/size/number restrictions. No Section 8 or vouchers.
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
Charming fully furnished 4-Bedroom Home in Gulfport with utilities, Wifi and lawn care included! 3+ month lease available with optional rollover to month-to-month! Don't miss your chance to call this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home yours! Step inside to find a freshly painted interior with modern, neutral colors and all-new flooring. The luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the
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