Mississippi demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,946,779
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,447/yr
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,341,114
0.6% year-over-year change

Mississippi population

How many people live in Mississippi

Mississippi is home to 2,946,779 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Mississippi locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
2,946,779
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
1,429,262
Female
51.5%
1,517,517
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,429,262 48.5% -0.2%
Female 1,517,517 51.5% -0.2%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Mississippi is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19% are children under 15, then 14.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.2% of the population, while another 24.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
19%
15 to 24
14.1%
25 to 44
25.2%
45 to 64
24.6%
Over 65
17.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 560,326 19% -1.2%
15 to 24 414,187 14.1% 0.1%
25 to 44 741,075 25.2% -0.1%
45 to 64 725,352 24.6% -1.0%
Over 65 505,839 17.2% 2.2%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Mississippi, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 55.8% of locals are Caucasian, 36.4% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,855,010 96.9% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 49,099 1.7% -1.2%
Non-citizens 42,670 1.4% 3.8%
Racial breakdown
White
55.8%
Black or African American
36.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.4%
Other
1.9%
Value Percent
White 1,644,516 55.8%
Black or African American 1,072,849 36.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 14,113 0.5%
Asian 29,907 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,388 0%
Two or more races 128,713 4.4%
Other 55,293 1.9%

Households in Mississippi

A peek inside Mississippi households

Mississippi has 1,145,431 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.3% are families, while the remaining 34.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,145,431
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
397,827
Family households
747,604
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 397,827 34.7% 1.6%
Family households 747,604 65.3% 1.0%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Mississippi

The housing landscape of Mississippi

Mississippi's housing consists of 1,341,114 units, with 69.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 14.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,341,114
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 929,389 69.3%
1 unit, attached 18,220 1.4%
2 units 32,133 2.4%
3 or 4 units 42,767 3.2%
5 to 9 units 52,658 3.9%
10 to 19 units 32,396 2.4%
20 to 49 units 16,718 1.2%
50 or more units 21,298 1.6%
Mobile home 193,137 14.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2,398 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
22,567
78.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mississippi

In Mississippi, the median construction year is 1986. About 4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 53,957 4% -4.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 41,114 3.1% -0.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 95,681 7.1% -1.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 141,364 10.5% -1.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 224,191 16.7% -0.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 184,268 13.7% -0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 206,603 15.4% -2.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 224,104 16.7% 0.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 147,265 11% 8.2%
Built in 2020 or later 22,567 1.7% 78.1%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Mississippi occupancy rates

Out of the 1,145,431 occupied housing units in Mississippi, 70% are owner-occupied, while 30% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,145,431
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
343,643
Owner occupied
801,788
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 343,643 30% -0.5%
Owner occupied 801,788 70% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
14.6%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Mississippi housing costs

Housing costs in Mississippi come to a median of $869 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $954.

Median housing costs per month
$869/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Mississippi
$954/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Mississippi

Mississippi education at a glance

About 39.4% of the population in Mississippi went to high school, while 22.7% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 14.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 90,469 4% -2.1%
High school diploma 889,452 39.4% -0.5%
College diploma 513,228 22.7% -3.6%
Associate degree 247,613 11% 2.2%
Bachelor's degree 322,835 14.3% 4.0%
Graduate degree 196,377 8.7% 4.5%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Mississippi

How much people earn in Mississippi

The average annual household income in Mississippi was $78,922 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,447, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mississippi
$78,922/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mississippi
$56,447/year
2.8% year-over-year change

Mississippi income by age

In Mississippi, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,994. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,514 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,679, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,306 in earnings. Overall, 81.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,679 8.1%
25 - 44 $61,994 3.3%
45 - 64 $67,514 3.5%
Over 65 $43,306 1.8%
Above poverty level
2,289,507
Below poverty level
530,796
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,289,507 81.2% 0.1%
Below poverty level 530,796 18.8% -0.8%

Employment in Mississippi

Workforce and job types in Mississippi

The job market in Mississippi is powered by 1,255,444 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.6% run their own businesses, 65.4% are employed by private companies, and 18.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,255,444
0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
905,843
Blue collar
349,601
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 905,843 72.2% 0.8%
Blue collar 349,601 27.8% 0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
9.6%
Private companies
65.4%
Governmental workers
18.6%
Not for profit companies
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 120,894 9.6% 3.4%
Private companies 821,670 65.4% -0.1%
Governmental workers 232,823 18.6% 0.8%
Not for profit companies 80,057 6.4% 4.0%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
-3.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mississippi stands at 5.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Mississippi

How people get around in Mississippi

Commuting methods vary: 91.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,132,162 91.1% -0.1%
Taxicab 942 0.1% 89.5%
Bus or trolleybus 2,720 0.2% 4.3%
Subway or elevated 29 0% N/A
Railroad 372 0% 16.2%
Ferryboat 154 0% -5.5%
Motorcycle 673 0% -17.0%
Bicycle 1,010 0.1% 2.2%
Walk 16,769 1.4% 4.8%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about Mississippi demographics 

What is the total population of Mississippi?

Mississippi has a total population of 2,946,779 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mississippi?

The gender ratio in Mississippi is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (1,429,262 residents)
  • 51.5% females (1,517,517 residents)

What is the median age in Mississippi?

The median age in Mississippi is 38.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Mississippi?

The age distribution in Mississippi is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19% (560,326 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.1% (414,187 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.2% (741,075 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.6% (725,352 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.2% (505,839 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mississippi?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mississippi is as follows:
  • White: 55.8% (1,644,516 residents)
  • Black or African American: 36.4% (1,072,849 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (14,113 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (29,907 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1,388 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.4% (128,713 residents)
  • Other: 1.9% (55,293 residents)

What percentage of the population in Mississippi are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Mississippi.

How many housing units are there in Mississippi?

There are 1,341,114 housing units in Mississippi, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Mississippi and what is the average household size?

Mississippi has a total of 1,145,431 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mississippi?

Mississippi has a median household income of $56,447, representing a +2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Mississippi?

The employment rate is 94.2% in Mississippi, with a workforce of 1,255,444 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.2% (905,843 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.8% (349,601 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.6% (120,894 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.4% (821,670 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.6% (232,823 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.4% (80,057 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025