When the city of Picayune was established in the 1880s, its most famous resident selected its name. Eliza Jane Poitevent Holbrook Nicholson — better known by her pen name, Pearl Rivers — was the owner and publisher of The Daily Picayune, a New Orleans newspaper that morphed into the paper that still exists today. The newspaper was named for its price: a picayune, the Spanish coin worth about six cents. Pearl Rivers loved her paper like she loved her town, so she named the latter for the former.
Today, the Mississippi city of 12,000 is trying to make its own headlines. New road constructions and a revitalized downtown point to a city on the rise, maintaining its place as the largest city in Pearl River County. Many residents work in the coal, oil and power industries, and Stennis Space Center, a NASA rocket engine test facility, is about 10 miles south. “There are people here from all over,” says Martha Ford, a broker with Ford Realty Inc. “Sometimes work brings them here, but some want a part of the country life, to get away from the hustle and bustle."
Picayune is the largest city in Pearl River County.
Picayune is just 50 miles from New Orleans using Interstate 59.
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Convenient access to New Orleans and Hattiesburg
Picayune is about 50 miles from New Orleans and 60 miles from Hattiesburg. “You can go into the city for some of the best food in the world,” Ford says. “But you can also let your kids ride four-wheelers — and you can’t do that in the city.” Interstate 59 runs east of downtown, and the city recently got approval to construct a $3.4 million road parallel to I-59 that will lead to the city’s commercial center, easing highway traffic and drawing more people to downtown businesses. Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, 50 miles east, has nonstop flights to several domestic locations. The city has an Amtrak stop on the Crescent line, which runs from New Orleans to New York City. Highland Community Hospital is a 60-bed facility.
Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport is 50 miles east of Picayune.
Picayune has an Amtrak stop on the Crescent line that runs from New Orleans to NYC.
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A mix of New Traditional and older ranch-style homes
City homes have a median price of about $215,000, slightly below the state median. Homes stay on the market for 107 days on average. New Traditional homes built in recent years can be found in the eastern half of the city. Ranch-style homes built between 1970 and 2000 are prevalent throughout Picayune. There are also lots and large parcels of land available for building.
Ranch style homes are common throughout Picayune.
New Traditional homes can be found when looking to move to Picayune.
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West Canal Street is home to local shops and restaurants
Downtown Picayune is full of local restaurants, especially along West Canal Street. Betty K’s is a family-owned burger shop famous for its chili buns. The street also has several antique shops, clothing stores and furniture retailers. Away from downtown, Pine Tree Plaza Shopping Center has larger stores and chain restaurants.
Betty K’s is a family-owned burger shop famous for its chili buns in Picayune.
Picayune’s Pine Tree Plaza Shopping Center has larger stores and a fitness center.
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Protecting regional plant life at the Crosby Arboretum
Nearly half of Picayune residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, just under the U.S. urban median. Most of the city parks are designed for recreation. Friendship Park features the third-largest playground in the state, while the Crosby Arboretum has more than 100 acres of native plants split into three habitats.
Picayune’s Crosby Arboretum has more than 100 acres of native plants in three habitats.
Friendship Park has several baseball fields to play on.
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Museums and a downtown public art walk
The city has museums and historic buildings to explore. Inside the Picayune Train Depot, the Lower Pearl River Valley Transportation Museum chronicles local history and its many intersections with railroad development. A public art walk features murals and other art pieces placed around downtown. Each holiday season, the city hosts Christmas on the Rails, a free event with games, music and food held across multiple downtown locations. Twice a year, the Main Street Street Fair has craft and food vendors placed along Canal Street.
The Picayune Train Depot serves as a museum and functioning train station.
Picayune’s Lower Pearl River Valley Transportation Museum shows local railroad history.
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Two school districts serve local students
Most city students are served by the Picayune School District, which receives a B-minus from Niche. A small number of students are served by the Pearl River County School District, also rated B-minus. Pope John Paul II Catholic High School, a private school, earns an A-minus.
City students are served by the Picayune School District, which receives a B- from Niche.
Pope John Paul II High School is centrally located in Slidell, LA.
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A moderate risk of hurricanes and tornadoes
The city’s violent crime rate has fallen in recent years, while its property crime rate has remained steady. Summers can be long and humid, while winters are typically cold but short. The city has a high risk of hurricanes and tornadoes compared to the rest of the country.
Written By
Ryan Kohn
Photography Contributed By
Andrew Williams
Video By
Jason Jacot
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Michelle Patterson,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Picayune, MS sell after 147 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Picayune, MS over the last 12 months is $163,000, down 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome HOME!—a stunning three-bedroom, two-bathroom single-family home nestled on an expansive 12.3-acre lot. This property offers over 2,300 square feet of comfortable living space, blending the charm of rural tranquility with ample modern amenities. Step inside to discover a warm and inviting interior, highlighted by a cozy fireplace that creates a perfect focal point in the living area. The
Rare opportunity to purchase a prime small tract on the desirable Old West Side of Picayune. Ideal for residential development, this property is conveniently located near schools, churches, and downtown shopping. Featuring four available parcels, the site offers flexibility for builders or investors seeking a well-situated location with strong potential. Don't miss this exceptional opportunity in
From the lovely facade to the soaring ceilings, the LaSalle model exudes casual elegance. A formal entry, adjacent to the dining room, opens to a large family room fireplace option available. The front and rear porches expand the living area allowing for family time outdoors or for accommodating guests when hosting neighborhood cookouts with friends. The spacious gourmet kitchen includes an
Endless possibilities await with this custom-built collection of four single-dwelling tiny homes situated on 10+ peaceful acres just outside of town. Each thoughtfully designed home features a comfortable living room, private bedroom and bathroom, and a spacious utility/laundry room. Enjoy quiet mornings and relaxing evenings from the adorable front porch and back stoop, with serene views of the
Step into modern comfort with this beautifully designed new home featuring 1,900 square feet of open-concept living space. Available for new construction in Picayune! The spacious layout seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areasperfect for entertaining or everyday family life. The kitchen boasts contemporary finishes, ample cabinetry, and a large island.The primary suite offers a
One of 2 waterfront lots left and available from the developer! Fronting on county paved road with community water available. There are Protective Covenants and Rules and Regulations for this community.
Welcome to this charming new construction 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offering 1,300 sq ft of living space. Home features an open layout, recessed lighting, and stainless steel appliances. Conveniently Located just minutes from the interstate, this property provides easy access to shopping, dining, and commuting. Move-in ready and perfectly suited for comfortable everyday living.
Check out this charming home which is completely visible from HWY 11. This property is zoned C-3 (highway commercial) so would make an awesome location for a business to thrive with countless exposure on a daily basis. Key facts to point out include original hardwood floors- some areas need attention/repair. Master suite and a 2nd bedroom/bathroom. There is also a 3rd room that would make a great
Well maintained older home 3 bedrooms 1 bath-large living room and dining room combined-nice kitchen- covered porch off of kitchen area and laundry area on porch area-large lot- front porch also covered car storage
Apartments located in main area of Picayune, near cosby commons, churches, schools and goverment offices. Apartments have been totally renovated , Stainless steel , including refrigerator, microwave, stove/oven with wood and tile floors. Ceiling fans in all rooms. Large closets. Ample cabinet space. On-sight laundromat, off street parking, security cameras. Very quiet and safe. Trash pickup
This 3-bedroom, 2-bath rental home offers a comfortable layout with updated features. The home includes an updated HVAC system, updated lighting, a newer roof, and a newer water heater. The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, and both bathrooms offer updated finishes.Conveniently located in the heart of Picayune, the property is within walking distance to shopping,
Excellent 1 bed 1 bath studio apartment for lease in Downtown Picayune located within walking distance to local shops and eateries! Kitchen has all of your appliances and washer/dryer hookup available. Water and Electric utility included! Unit is located on the first level.
Welcome to 21 Big Springs Rd. Unit #A with beautiful live oaks, 1.25 acres, and 3 br/2ba. Located just outside city limits it is convenient to town, interstate, shopping, and schools. $1250 Rent and $1250 deposit. No Pets and no smoking. Lawncare included. Applicants must meet the following requirements: minimum credit score of 580, no prior evictions, income of at least two times the monthly
Welcome to 21 Big Springs Rd. Unit #A with beautiful live oaks, 1.25 acres, and 3 br/2ba. Located just outside city limits it is convenient to town, interstate, shopping, and schools. $1250 Rent and $1250 deposit. No Pets and no smoking. Lawncare included. Applicants must meet the following requirements: minimum credit score of 580, no prior evictions, income of at least two times the monthly
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