In Bay St. Louis, life moves at the speed of a golf cart, and not a second faster. Located about 50 miles from New Orleans and only 15 miles from the John C. Stennis Space Center, this small, coastal Mississippi city is “definitely a great, slowed-down, relaxed place compared to fast-paced places like Gulf Shores or Pensacola,” says Bill Lawler, a local Realtor with Century 21 Busch Realty Group, who has spent more than two decades on the Gulf Coast. “Besides the fishing and down-home feel, small-town charm is what attracts people here.” Although it’s also home to the impressive Hollywood Casino & Resort, Bay St. Louis is best known for its white sandy beaches, golf cart-friendly streets, neighborhood parks and historic downtown area, known locally as Old Town. Beyond the antique stores, galleries and museums, though, Bay St. Louis celebrates its cultural history by maintaining buildings like the mural-adorned 100 Men Hall, which was built in 1922 and is part of the famous Mississippi Blues Trail. Events like art walks, Mardi Gras celebrations and antique car shows might bring busy crowds to the quiet streets, but at the end of the day, residents can let go and enjoy an easy-going coastal lifestyle in Bay St. Louis.
Exploring historic Old Town
Just off South Beach Boulevard, Old Town combines Southern hospitality and charm with art, history and a bon vivant lifestyle. The district is filled with dozens of specialty retail stores, antique shops, museums and local galleries, which often participate in events such as the Second Saturday Artwalk. Permanent installations include meaningful works such as The Angel Tree, which portrays three angels carved from the branches of a tree that sheltered survivors during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The city’s strong connection with art is also illustrated by popular restaurants like Mockingbird Café, which is filled with local paintings. Often called the “Living Room of the Bay,” this restaurant was established in 2006 in an 1868 building just two blocks from the beachfront and is well-known for its commitment to sustainability and reducing plastic waste. In July, an annual Frida Fest brings a host of Frida Kahlo look-alikes to the café to celebrate the life of this famed Mexican artist.
Bay St. Louis, MS has amazing food choices to choose from.
Experience The Angel Tree in Bay St. Louis, MS.
Enjoy the rich history of Old Town Bay St. Louis, MS and support local shops.
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Essential shopping at Marketown
When it comes to shopping for groceries, many residents will head to Marketown Shopping Center off U.S. Route 90. Less than a mile down the road, Bealls is a one-stop shop for home goods and clothing. And for even more retail opportunities, residents can make the short drive west to the Walmart Supercenter and Lowe’s Home Improvement in neighboring Waveland.
From beachfront bungalows to midcentury models
As part of the Mississippi Sound, Bay St. Louis is renowned for its miles of beachfront properties. Neat lawns border colorful homes with cozy, covered front porches, some of them adorned with vintage rocking chairs and potted plants. Although many of the community’s more historic homes were irreparably damaged during Hurricane Katrina, Victorian architecture still makes an appearance, and new builds often stick to traditional styles instead of leaning into contemporary lines. Buyers will find everything from simple two-bedroom cottages for $350,000 to spacious midcentury models and newly constructed four-bedroom homes in the $500,000 to $800,000 range, making this community accessible for a host of different budgets. “It’s very affordable compared to other Mississippi beach towns. Your dollars will go further down here,” Lawler says.
Traditional style homes in Bay St. Louis, MS creates history within the town.
Cozy brick cottage style homes in Bay St. Louis, MS are perfect to retire in.
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Bay Waveland Middle’s creative spark
As part of the Bay St. Louis-Waveland School District, students benefit from attending highly rated public schools that all maintain grades of A-minus or better on Niche. Many students will start at North Bay Elementary before moving on to Bay Waveland Middle, which follows an art-focused curriculum and is one of the top 20 standout middle schools in Mississippi, according to Niche. At Bay High School, students can participate in dual enrollment courses in connection with the Pearl River Community College.
Bay Waveland Middle School is a great school in Bay St. Louis, MS.
Cruz-in’ around town
Coast Cruzr, an on-demand bike share program that uses solar-powered stations, makes it easy for locals and visitors alike to explore the streets of Bay St. Louis. Many residents also enjoy cruising around town in their golf carts. As the city’s main thoroughfare, U.S. Route 90 connects commuters with Henderson Point across the bridge and Interstate 10 to the west, passing by major employers such as Ochsner Medical Center.
Spend a day on bikes in Bay St. Louis, MS.
Enjoy the beauty of nature living in Bay St. Louis, MS.
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Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Patrice Poree,
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 Bay Saint Louis, MS sell after 68 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Bay Saint Louis, MS over the last 12 months is $294,500, up 15% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Exceptional brick home with custom finishes in the Diamondhead Lakes Community near Golfing and Fishing. As you approach you'll find the oversized courtyard garage, porch and solid custom door. Upon entering the foyer the ceilings soar with custom lighting welcoming you into the family room. New Luxury vinyl plank throughout the open spaces. All inclusive views from the gourmet kitchen into the
Looking for a nice waterfront home just minutes to the River. Close to Old Town, Casino, and Beaches. Offers 2b/2b with approx. 1,700 s.f. of living area. Back and side decks with a covered rain entrance in back of house. A Boathouse on the edge of the property completes the picture. All this sits on an approx. 200 x 100 ft lot.
Welcome to your Coastal Dream Home! Enjoy serene canal views on the Jordan River, which flows directly into the Gulf, perfect for those who love the outdoors. Dock your boat at your private boathouse, complete with a seawall, and cruise straight into downtown Bay St. Louis to experience luxury dining, boutique shopping, and all the vibrant amenities this charming coastal town has to
Jessica HendersonSelling Southern Homes & Land, LLC., Selling Southern DBA
Charming Cottage Feel with All the Luxuries of Home!Ever dreamed of living in a cottage-style home without sacrificing space or luxury? This one delivers! Nestled on a beautifully landscaped lot with live oaks and a circular drive, this home features an open floor plan, 3 spacious bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms—including a walk-in shower in the primary suite.The huge basement offers
**Double Lot on the Bayou - Your Dream Property Awaits!** Discover the perfect canvas for your dream home on this stunning double lot, nestled along the bayou. **Property Highlights:** - **Double Lot**: Two spacious parcels combined, offering ample room for a grand estate or luxurious retreat. (3rd Lot is available next to these as well so you have the potential for 3 lots if wanted)**Waterfront
Move-in ready home in the highly sought-after Diamondhead golf community. Golf course views from the breakfast room and fenced backyard patio.Formal dining room perfect for gatherings and entertaining. Step-down living room with fireplace and vaulted ceilings for added charm. Bright, well-appointed kitchen with cozy breakfast nook. Split-bedroom floor plan ensures privacy for
This property is managed by Beztak, 2025 recipient of the US Best Managed Companies for the sixth year in a row, sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. Call and let us tell you why!Your new home awaits at Bay Crossings Apartments, an inviting community that answers your need for a comfortable, charming, and centrally-located home in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.Designed with the
Duplex for rent in Bay St. Louis! Available1st or 2nd week of July 2025. This 3 bdr, 2 bath has granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, laminate floors, washer & dryer. Within walking distance to the Gulf in quiet neighborhood. Pictures are from neighboring unit with a swapped floor plan.
This newly renovated 3-bedroom house is perfectly situated in a prime location in St. Louis, offering everything you need for an amazing vacation. The home features an expansive lawn, outdoor fire pit, and ample parking, making it ideal for families and groups. With 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, it comfortably accommodates up to 7 guests, ensuring everyone feels at home.Welcome to a home
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