Vancleave offers land, quiet and access to nearby cities
Buyers can escape city noise in Vancleave. "It's a rural area, and properties there are very desirable for people who want to be out of that city bustle and for people who want to live outside of major flood zones," says Realtor Jacki Thornburg with Exit Realty. "But it's still pretty close to the main commercial areas." The Jackson County community of about 5,000 residents offers a relaxed country vibe, comprising large pine and oak wood sections and lush, green farmland marked with ponds and creeks. To the east, the Pascagoula River winds through marshy wetlands, creating slow-moving bayous that residents use for boating and fishing. Thornburg mentions that the community is less than a 30-minute drive to commercial areas like D'Iberville and Ocean Springs. In addition to the space and land that Vancleave offers, it has well-rated schools and holiday events that make it family-friendly.
Median home price is $299,900 with rural and estate options
Vancleave offers a relaxed country vibe, comprising large pine and oak wood sections and lush, green farmland marked with ponds and creeks. To the east, the Pascagoula River winds through marshy wetlands, creating slow-moving bayous that residents use for boating and fishing. With all the nature surrounding Vancleave, homes typically have much land and privacy. The community has a median sale price of $299,900, offering a broad mix of styles. There are manufactured, ranch-style and New Traditional homes, some of which are in subdivisions. Vancleave also offers multi-million-dollar farm estates with land between 5 and 35 acres. "Many buyers are moving out here because there are so many big parcels of land available," says Thornburg. Vancleave has a relatively high risk of impact from hurricanes and residents should consider adequate homeowner's insurance and follow the evacuation protocol in an emergency.
Vancleave schools offer strong academics and extracurriculars
Jackson County School District serves nearly 9,000 students and earns an overall A-minus rating from Niche. Vancleave Lower Elementary serves kindergarten through third grade and scores a B-plus. Vancleave Upper Elementary serves fourth and fifth grades and has an A-minus. Vancleave Middle scores an A-minus, and Vancleave High earns a B-plus. Students have several extracurricular activities available, including creative writing, music and various athletic programs.
Dog park, ball fields and playgrounds near Vancleave schools
Living in Vancleave offers access to the Pascagoula River, which has marinas and boat launches scattered along the river. Thornburg mentions that natural attractions are a big part of the appeal here. "People love to go fishing, golfing, boating and camping around this area," she says. Off Bob's Lake Road near the schools is a ramp where residents launch boats and kayaks or go fishing. A short drive away, Paige Bayou Marina and John's Bayou Marina also offer boat, kayak and paddleboard launch areas, plus mooring storage for boats. Vancleave also sits near several campgrounds, such as Bluff Creek. The campground offers a large, freshwater swimming hole popular with families. Martin Luther King Family Park has a playground, walking loop and basketball court. Near the Vancleave schools are several ball fields, athletic fields and the Vancleave Dog Park. Residents are also 16 miles from Gulf beaches, like Ocean Springs, and 20 miles from Shepherd State Park.
Small businesses and restaurants line Highway 57 in Vancleave
Along Highway 57 is a small commercial area, including churches, small businesses, supply shops, a library and a post office. Residents may pick up groceries at the Family Dollar or Greer's Market. A few restaurants in Vancleave include Ward's, a hamburger and hot dog chain. Luckie's Diner is one of the community's most popular places, serving comfort food, sandwiches and fresh Gulf seafood. For more services, nearby Ocean Springs has shops, restaurants and art galleries, and D'Iberville has a large big-box store area.
Vancleave celebrates the season with crafts, music and food
Vancleave has community events that bring residents together. There is an annual back-to-school bingo night at Luckie's Diner, and a pancake story time at Vancleave Public Library. The most significant event, by far, is the Vancleave Small Town Christmas. This winter holiday kick-off has craft vendors, food trucks, kids' crafts and live music. The event also has a raffle and a donation area to support local families in need.
Vancleave offers convenient access to health care and transit
Mississippi State Highway 57 runs through Vancleave, connecting residents south to Interstate 10 and the Pascagoula-Biloxi-Gulfport area. In Biloxi, residents may also take the Amtrak Mardi Gras Service train, which runs from Mobile, 60 miles away, to New Orleans, 90 miles away. The closest hospital is Singing River Health-Ocean Springs, 12 miles away. Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport is 30 miles from Vancleave.
