Side-by-side comparison of home prices, mortgage payments, and housing costs between Hattiesburg and Olive Branch, Mississippi. Using Mississippi's 0.8% property tax rate and $2,400/year insurance. Updated for 2026.
Hattiesburg is significantly more affordable than Olive Branch, with homes priced 34% lower on average. That translates to $606/month in savings on your total housing payment. For budget-conscious buyers in Mississippi, Hattiesburg offers a much more accessible path to homeownership.
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 Hattiesburg saves you approximately $606/month ($7,272/year) compared to Olive Branch, based on median home prices with identical loan terms.
Hattiesburg is the better choice for first-time buyers, with a median price of $175K versus $265K in Olive Branch. That's $90K less to save for a down payment. You'd need roughly $6K for an FHA 3.5% down payment in Hattiesburg, compared to $9K in Olive Branch. Mississippi offers the MHC Smart Solution program (Up to $10,000 DPA) which applies in both cities.
Hattiesburg has the better price-to-rent ratio at 15.4x versus 18.1x in Olive Branch. A lower ratio generally signals better rental income relative to purchase price. Average rent in Hattiesburg is $950/month on a $175K median home, making it a stronger candidate for buy-and-rent investors.
Hattiesburg (pop. 48,602) offers more amenities, schools, and services typical of a larger city, while Olive Branch (pop. 40,375) may offer a quieter, more community-oriented lifestyle. Hattiesburg offers both more options and lower housing costs, making it attractive for families who want urban amenities without a premium price.