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
Kimberly Shelton,
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 53 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Gulfport, MS over the last 12 months is $240,260, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Fully Renovated Bayou View Beauty - Like New and Move-In Ready!This stunning Bayou View home has been completely renovated from top to bottom—with a new roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, windows, and more. Truly Like new with modern finishes throughout!Offering 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms in a split floor plan with two ensuite bedrooms, the home features an open living and kitchen
Skip the wait and step into a home where everything is already done. The seller is offering $10,000 in concessions with a reasonable offer. Priced below appraisal and already showing built-in equity. 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
Awesome builder rate plus FREE refrigerator! Restrictions apply. The OLIVERI V G in Gulf Grove community offers a 4-bedroom, 2 full bathroom, open design. This home includes an upgraded kitchen backsplash, quartz countertops, undermount cabinet lighting, LED coach lights on each side of the garage, and more! Special Features: double vanity, garden tub, separate custom tiled shower, and walk-in
Fully Renovated Bayou View Beauty - Like New and Move-In Ready!This stunning Bayou View home has been completely renovated from top to bottom—with a new roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, windows, and more. Truly Like new with modern finishes throughout!Offering 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms in a split floor plan with two ensuite bedrooms, the home features an open living and kitchen
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
4 BEDROOM HOME in North Gulfport. This home has granite counter tops, soft-close cabinets and vinyl plank flooring. Tray ceiling and recessed lighting can be found in the main living area. Split floor plan with a layout that offers guest rooms on one side and your owner's suite on the other. Extended sidewalk. Two-car garage, fenced yard, and covered patio. Conveniently located right off O'Neal
Spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bath home within walking distance to the community pool! Split floorplan and open-concept. Formal dining area plus a large bonus space/office at the front of the home. Granite countertops in the kitchen. The primary suite includes his-and-her bathrooms and brand new carpet. Great storage throughout the home.Two-car garage, extended driveway, outdoor sprinkler system, and
A rare opportunity to own a true Mississippi Gulf Coast retreat. Situated on 3.4 acres with multiple fully stocked ponds, this one-of-a-kind property offers the privacy, flexibility, and lifestyle features buyers wait years to find. This home features over 2,400 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, an inviting open layout, spacious bedrooms, large entertaining areas, and peaceful
One of the largest fully fenced backyards in the neighborhood sets this property apart, offering plenty of space for entertaining, outdoor activities, pets, or simply relaxing. It's a rare find and a true standout feature you don't want to miss. Welcome to 14067 Sanctuary Trails Drive in Gulfport! This practically new, well-maintained home offers a great blend of comfort and functionality in a
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
Welcome to this stunning, renovated home offering approximately 4,984 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space on 1.5 acres! With 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and versatile flex rooms, this property delivers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality. The primary suite is a true retreat, featuring a spacious flex room and office area leading into the bedroom, where a charming brick
Stunning Bayou View Beauty with Custom Features & Entertainer's Dream Yard! Welcome to this gorgeous home in the heart of Bayou View, where timeless elegance meets modern comfort. From the moment you step inside, you'll be captivated by the high ceilings, gleaming hardwood floors, and thoughtful design throughout. The home offers multiple inviting living spaces, including a formal living room
This home is not or be missed! First it is a great location with quick access to both 1-10 and Hwy 49. It was already an upscale Elliott model home with 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths built for multi generation living, and this owner has made it even better with so many upgrades you won't need to do! Like a whole house Generac generator, secure privacy fencing, top of the line alarm system with
Situated just steps from the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Harrison County Campus, this beautifully updated 3 bedroom, 2 full bath home offers unmatched convenience for anyone looking to be close to it all. Enjoy quick access to nearby shopping, dining, and entertainment, plus an easy drive to the Mississippi Gulf Coast Beaches for those relaxing coastal days. Inside, you'll find a
Beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 3-bath home with over 2200 square feet of living space and two-car garage. Step inside to an open-concept living, dining, and kitchen area with ceilings, 8-foot interior doors, and lots of natural light. The kitchen features soft-close doors, Carrara quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. Spacious owner's retreat with spa-inspired bathroom with a fully
FULLY FURNISHED with utilities + wifi + lawn care included. - 2 Bed 2.5 bath (3+ MONTH RENTAL)! Each bedroom has its own private bathroom. Just blocks from the beach and easy access to I10, Dinning, Entertainment, and Shopping.
This property is managed by Beztak, 2026 recipient of the US Best Managed Companies for the seventh year in a row, sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. Call and let us tell you why! Seize your chance to live in one of the premier apartment communities in Gulfport! Picture coming home every day to the warm embrace of meticulous landscaping, comfortable homes, and thoughtful
Welcome to the Kennedy Collection's Sandpiper Bungalow, nestled in a cul-de-sac in Landon Green. This professionally designed 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home offers 1,659 square feet of open-concept living with a stunning wooded view and upscale finishes throughout. Luxury vinyl plank flooring flows through the main living areas, highlighted by 8-foot doors, double crown moulding, bullnose rounded
Arbor Village Apartment Homes...where upscale living and serene surroundings meet to give you an enjoyable, comfortable living environment. Our beautiful, lush landscaping, amenities, and superior customer service will surpass your expectations. We are conveniently located between Keesler Air Force Base and the Seabee Naval Base on Pass Road, and minutes from casinos, beaches, shopping, dining,
This townhome is located on the beach block with views from your balcony of the beach. Home is fully furnished with utilities and internet. TDY Welcome. Renters insurance required.
This property is managed by Beztak, 2026 recipient of the US Best Managed Companies for the seventh year in a row, sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. Call and let us tell you why!Designed with comfort and convenience in mind, Bayou Landing features amenities that make you feel at home. With features like walk-in closets and private patio or balcony, you can take advantage
Community Pool 14348 Atwood Cv 14348 Atwood Cv Gulfport, MS 39503 Charming Cul-de-Sac Living in Wind Rose - Spacious, Stylish & Ready for You! Welcome to your next home in the desirable Wind Rose Subdivision! This beautifully maintained, move-in-ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath (with a study or possible 4th bedroom) home offers a perfect blend of comfort, space, and community living—all nestled in a quiet
At Creekwood North life is about being comfortable with yourself and your surroundings. We've created a special place for you! With abundant space and resort style amenities, you'll feel like we designed your apartment home to your specifications. Conveniently located near shopping, restaurants, major thoroughfares, military bases and beaches. Creekwood North is an exceptional place to call
Welcome to is this charming, easy-to-love rental in a convenient spot, perfect for anyone who wants a comfortable home base with quick access to the best of the area. Step inside to a bright, welcoming living space with a functional layout that makes everyday living simple. The kitchen offers plenty of room to prep meals and stay organized, and the bedrooms provide comfortable space to unwind.
Come home to The Preserve Apartments in Gulfport, MS, and discover a community that truly has it all. Choose from our 1, 2, and 3-bedroom floor plans to find your perfect fit. Here at The Preserve, you’ll discover what makes us stand out from the rest of Gulfport. Our pet-friendly apartments boast impressive interiors -complete with central air, heating, updated appliances, and high-speed
Wooded Mountain Vibes in South Mississippi? Yes, Please! Welcome to your next chapter in Audubon Lake! This charming 3-bedroom "Anna" floor plan is just 5 years young and packed with character—and the backyard? It's a showstopper. Step onto the expansive 16' x 12' deck and take in the view: a peaceful wooded hill that brings serious cabin-in-the-mountains energy right here in South Mississippi.
This property is managed by Beztak, 2026 recipient of the US Best Managed Companies for the seventh year in a row, sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. Call and let us tell you why! Live where the action is! The Bayou District puts you minutes away from downtown Biloxi's vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining. Take a stroll on the iconic 908' Coliseum Pier (the county's
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