Mississippi is a state rich in economic opportunities, making it an attractive destination for those considering a move to the Magnolia State. Whether you’re looking at homes for sale in Jackson or apartments in Gulfport, Mississippi offers a welcoming environment for families and professionals alike. With diverse industries ranging from agriculture to aerospace, the state caters to a wide range of career paths. Mississippi’s affordable cost of living makes it an appealing destination for job seekers and homebuyers alike. Explore the major industries in Mississippi and discover the potential they hold for your future.
Mississippi at a Glance: Home Prices, Income, and Employment
Top Employers in Mississippi
- Walmart: 25,900 employees
- State of Mississippi: 23,700 employees
- Toyota Motor Corp: 8,700 employees
- North Mississippi Health Services: 7,200 employees
- Nissan Motor Co.: 12,100 employees
10 Major Industries in Mississippi
1. Manufacturing
Major Employers: Nissan (locations in Mississippi), Ingalls Shipbuilding (Pascagoula), Yokohama Tire Corporation (location in West Point).
Mississippi’s manufacturing sector is a critical part of its economy, producing a range of products from automobiles to shipbuilding equipment. Nissan’s operations in Canton provide jobs in automotive assembly and maintenance, while Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula offers roles in ship design and welding for naval vessels. The stability and growth opportunities in the manufacturing industry make it an attractive option for workers looking to relocate to Mississippi.
Considering a job in this industry? Explore homes for sale in Canton or Pascagoula.
2. Agriculture
Major Employers: Sanderson Farms (locations in Mississippi), Cal-Maine Foods (Ridgeland), Delta Pine & Land (Scott).
Agriculture has deep roots in Mississippi, with poultry, soybeans, and cotton being key products in the state’s $8.8 billion industry. Companies like Sanderson Farms and Cal-Maine Foods provide essential jobs in production and logistics, supporting the nation’s food supply. The agricultural industry offers meaningful work and a slower pace of life, particularly in rural areas.
Considering a job in this industry? Explore homes for sale in Ridgeland or Scott.
3. Healthcare
Major Employers: University of Mississippi Medical Center (Jackson), Baptist Memorial Hospital (locations in Mississippi), Memorial Hospital (Gulfport).
Healthcare is a rapidly growing industry in Mississippi, offering critical services to residents. Top healthcare employers like the University of Mississippi Medical Center and Memorial Hospital provide a range of job opportunities in patient care, administration, and research. Healthcare jobs offer stability and community impact, making them attractive to job seekers looking to make a difference.
Considering a job in this industry? Explore homes for sale in Jackson or Gulfport.
4. Energy
Major Employers: Entergy Mississippi (Jackson), Chevron (office in Pascagoula), Atmos Energy (locations in Mississippi).
Mississippi’s energy industry encompasses a range of sectors, including oil refining, natural gas, and renewable energy. Companies like Entergy Mississippi and Chevron provide jobs in electricity distribution, refining operations, and environmental safety. Careers in the energy sector often come with competitive pay and opportunities for advancement, making them attractive to job seekers. Living near these industry hubs can offer access to dynamic career options.
Considering a job in this industry? Explore homes for sale in Jackson or Pascagoula.
5. Technology
Major Employers: C Spire (Ridgeland), BeyondTrust Corporation (office in Ridgeland), Raytheon (locations in Mississippi).
The technology industry in Mississippi is growing, with a focus on telecommunications and software development. Companies like C Spire and BeyondTrust Corporation offer opportunities in IT, cybersecurity, and software support. This sector attracts innovative individuals and provides room for career advancement. Relocating to Mississippi allows you to be part of a thriving tech community.
Considering a job in this industry? Explore homes for sale in Ridgeland or Jackson.
6. Transportation and Logistics
Major Employers: FedEx (locations in Mississippi), UPS (locations in Mississippi), KLLM Transport Services (Richland).
The transportation and logistics industry in Mississippi generates nearly $5 billion, connecting goods through air, rail, and road. Companies like KLLM Transport Services, FedEx, and UPS provide jobs in trucking, logistics management, and package handling. This industry supports commerce and provides stable employment opportunities. Living near major logistics hubs can simplify your commute and improve work-life balance.
Considering a job in this industry? Explore homes for sale in Jackson or Richland.
7. Tourism and Hospitality
Major Employers: Beau Rivage Resort (Biloxi), Harrah’s Gulf Coast (Biloxi), IP Casino Resort Spa (Biloxi).
Tourism plays a significant role in Mississippi’s economy, especially along the Gulf Coast. Resorts like Beau Rivage and Harrah’s Gulf Coast offer jobs in customer service, gaming, and event planning. Living near these resorts provides access to coastal living and local amenities.
Considering a job in this industry? Explore homes for sale in Biloxi or Gulfport.
8. Education
Major Employers: Mississippi State University (Starkville), University of Mississippi (Oxford), Jackson State University (Jackson).
Education is a key component of Mississippi’s workforce, with major universities and colleges like Mississippi State University and the University of Mississippi providing a range of job opportunities. Whether you’re a professor, administrator, or researcher, these institutions offer a diverse array of roles. Living near these universities combines academic culture with the charm of college towns.
Considering a job in this industry? Explore homes for sale in Starkville or Oxford.
9. Retail Trade
Major Employers: Walmart (locations in Mississippi), Kroger (locations in Mississippi), Belk (Jackson).
Retail trade is a significant contributor to Mississippi’s economy, supporting a large portion of the state’s workforce. Companies like Walmart and Kroger provide jobs in sales, inventory management, and customer service. Whether you’re looking for entry-level roles or managerial positions, the retail industry offers a variety of opportunities. Living near retail hubs provides convenient access to amenities.
Considering a job in this industry? Explore homes for sale in Jackson or Clinton.
10. Forestry and Wood Products
Major Employers: Weyerhaeuser, Georgia-Pacific, International Paper (all based out of state with locations in Mississippi).
Mississippi’s abundant forests support a thriving wood products industry, with companies like Weyerhaeuser and Georgia-Pacific offering jobs in forestry management and manufacturing. Whether you’re interested in lumber processing or paper products, this industry provides opportunities for those seeking a connection to nature. Consider exploring homes for sale in Philadelphia or Magnolia for potential job opportunities in this sector.