Average Rent in Jefferson County, MS↑ Rents rising 3.3% YoY🔻 5th cheapest in MS
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 7,127
Market Overview
Jefferson County, MS has rental prices ranging from $707/month to $1,242/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $711/month — 49% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $36,207/year, spending $711/month on a 1-bedroom represents 24% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Jefferson County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $933/month, Jefferson County ranks #75 most expensive of the 79 cities tracked in Mississippi — more affordable than 60% of all US cities in our data.
The Jefferson County Rental Market
The Jefferson County, MS area has a population of about 7,127 and 21% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Jefferson County, MS have risen by $30/month (3.3%) over the past year, from $903 to $933. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Jefferson County, MS without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $28,440. The local median household income of $36,207 exceeds that threshold by $7,767, making Jefferson County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Jefferson County, MS has an unemployment rate of 11.4%, 7.5 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Jefferson County, MS Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in MSlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holmes County | $811 | $843 | $933 | $1,232 | — |
| Jackson | $1,045 | $1,051 | $1,232 | $1,484 | — |
| Stone County | $711 | $730 | $958 | $1,154 | — |
| Pascagoula | $922 | $972 | $1,094 | $1,466 | — |
| Gulfport | $766 | $896 | $1,117 | $1,446 | — |
| Covington County | $656 | $783 | $933 | $1,232 | — |
Rent or Buy in Jefferson County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Jefferson County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Jefferson County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Jefferson CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MSSee how Jefferson County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Jefferson CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MS Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections