Side-by-side comparison of home prices, mortgage payments, and housing costs between Gulfport and Jackson, Mississippi. Using Mississippi's 0.8% property tax rate and $2,400/year insurance. Updated for 2026.
Jackson edges out Gulfport in affordability, saving you roughly $269/month on total housing costs. Both cities are in Mississippi, so property tax rates and insurance costs are the same — the difference comes down to home prices and what you get for your money in each market.
Estimated PITI payments assuming 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed mortgage with PMI. Uses Mississippi's 0.8% property tax rate.
Buying in Jackson saves you approximately $269/month ($3,228/year) compared to Gulfport, based on median home prices with identical loan terms.
Jackson is the better choice for first-time buyers, with a median price of $145K versus $185K in Gulfport. That's $40K less to save for a down payment. You'd need roughly $5K for an FHA 3.5% down payment in Jackson, compared to $6K in Gulfport. Mississippi offers the MHC Smart Solution program (Up to $10,000 DPA) which applies in both cities.
Jackson has the better price-to-rent ratio at 13.1x versus 14.7x in Gulfport. A lower ratio generally signals better rental income relative to purchase price. Average rent in Jackson is $920/month on a $145K median home, making it a stronger candidate for buy-and-rent investors.
Jackson (pop. 153,701) offers more amenities, schools, and services typical of a larger city, while Gulfport (pop. 72,926) may offer a quieter, more community-oriented lifestyle. Jackson offers both more options and lower housing costs, making it attractive for families who want urban amenities without a premium price.