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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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
Allison LeFrere,
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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Picayune, MS sell after 116 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Picayune, MS over the last 12 months is $192,000, up 15% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Come see this Farm style rambler home with many amenities and places for your family gatherings! This home has several great rooms for gatherings inside and patios, gazebo and a separate screened in outdoor cooking and dining area. There are small garden sheds and a separate 2 car garage. This home just needs a family to love it and make it their home! A must see!
Tucked away in the county on 12.3 picturesque acres, this unique property offers the perfect blend of privacy, space, and versatility. A creek winds through the land, creating a peaceful, natural setting ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat or a place to spread out and enjoy country living. The 2,247 sq ft brick home features 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, with a functional layout designed for
Country Living at Its Finest on 2.1 Acres! Escape to your own private retreat with this spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offering plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Nestled on a beautiful 2.1-acre parcel, this property combines comfort, nature, and endless possibilities. The home features generous living spaces, a large covered carport, and a backyard designed for
Great potential in Picayune, MS in need of repairs and work. 2 Bedrooms 2 Baths. Being sold as is where is. Property is owned by the US Dept. of HUD. Case # 281-365241. Not FHA Insurable w/escrow. "IE, Subject toAppraisal" Seller makes no representations or warranties as to property condition. Buyer is responsible for connecting utilities at their expense. Managed by www.olympusams-at.com. Visit
Welcome to a truly exceptional custom-built estate where luxury, functionality, and space come together on 6 beautifully landscaped acres. Offering 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, an additional private office and secondary upstairs living room, a two-car garage, and just under 4,500 square feet of heated and cooled living space, this meticulously maintained home was thoughtfully designed for
Situated on approximately 13.7 private acres, this 2-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a spacious living area, fireplace, in-ground pool and detached outbuilding. The property is in need of renovation and is being sold As Is, Where Is. HUD Case #281-410186. HUD homes are sold as is.'' www.olympusams-at.com - www.HudHomeStore.gov.
Approximately 3 wooded acres on Highway 43 South, part of a larger parcel and subject to survey. This beautiful property offers a peaceful, wooded setting with excellent road frontage and is conveniently located between Picayune and the Mississippi Gulf Coast, providing easy access to shopping, dining, schools, and coastal attractions. Whether you're looking to build your dream home, establish a
Spacious, beautifully updated, and designed for both everyday living and entertaining, this approximately 4,300-square-foot Picayune home is filled with standout features inside and out. Located in a golf-cart-friendly neighborhood convenient to schools, shopping, dining, and entertainment, the home offers 4 bedrooms, a versatile BONUS room, and 4.5 baths. Each bedroom includes its own private en
Approximately 3 wooded acres on Highway 43 South, part of a larger parcel and subject to survey. This beautiful property offers a peaceful, wooded setting with excellent road frontage and is conveniently located between Picayune and the Mississippi Gulf Coast, providing easy access to shopping, dining, schools, and coastal attractions. Whether you're looking to build your dream home, establish a
5.9 approx acre lot and very private, Mobile home is in need of renovation. 3 Bedrooms 2 Baths. Being sold as is where is. HUD Case #281-440796 ''HUD homes are Sold As Is'' www.olympusams-at.com - www.HudHomeStore.gov
Welcome to this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath home! Situated on a spacious .86-acre lot with a privacy fence, it offers both comfort and room to enjoy outdoor living. Inside, you'll find an open and airy layout with durable wood-look flooring, tray ceilings, abundant natural light, and a cozy fireplace that creates the perfect gathering space in the living room. The spacious kitchen and dining area
14.82 Acres of some of the prettiest land in Pearl River County and perhaps all of South Mississippi! As you enter the property, you're welcomed by a breathtaking avenue of majestic live oaks estimated to be over 100 years old. The winding driveway carries you through a stunning grove of oaks, past your own private pond, and leads to a like new 40' x 60' shop that was thoughtfully designed by the
Welcome to your new home in Picayune, MS! This charming property is perfectly situated near several great restaurants and department stores, ensuring you’ll have everything you need within reach. For outdoor enthusiasts, Friendship Park is within walking distance, offering a lovely space to unwind. Plus, Highland Community Hospital is just an 8-minute drive away for your convenience.This
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 is a 2-bedroom 1 bathroom duplex on a dead-end street in the Picayune city limits. Duplex will rent for $1100 a month and pets are allowed with a $300 deposit.
Property Id: 2762924 Welcome to your new home at 2017 East Canal St. in Picayune, MS! This charming 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom unit is perfect for those seeking a cozy space. Enjoy the convenience of a washer and dryer in unit. Relax on the deck and take in the beautiful surroundings. With a rent of $975.00, this property won't last long. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity! Contact us
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
