Leaving the Magnolia State may seem like a good idea. But if you really think about it, a lot of changes come along with leaving. From the food you eat to the people you’ll meet, moving from Mississippi means making a few adjustments. So if you’re considering leaving Mississippi, here are 13 things you need to know.

1. Not all gas station food is created equal.
Kristin Brenemen/Flickr
Mississippi gas stations serve some great food – from fried chicken to bbq. But be warned, this isn’t the case everywhere. In some states, gas station fare includes day-old hot dogs and other unappetizing items.
2. You’ll probably have to deal with a few stereotypes.
Joe Sepielli/Flickr
Mention you’re from Mississippi, and people automatically assume you live in the middle of nowhere with no electricity or running water. Sure, Mississippi is full of rural communities, but these stereotypes couldn’t be more untrue.
3. Grits aren’t a universal breakfast item.
danuv/Flickr
No grits for breakfast may seem insane but it’s a reality for northerners. Yikes!
4. They call it the "Bible Belt" for a reason.
Mark Blasingame/Flickr
As one of the most religious states in the country, church is a big part of life – both spiritual and social - for most Mississippians.
5. Bug spray is no longer a necessity.
Ketzirah Lesser & Art Draug/Flickr
After dealing with the enormous mosquitoes that call Mississippi home, you can tolerate the bugs just about anywhere else. Think of how much money you’ll save on bug spray?!
6. People aren’t as friendly.
Jonas Birme/Flickr
When you leave the Hospitality State, you’ll quickly realize just how deserving the state is of its nickname.

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Tea isn’t always served cold and sweet.
LaurelF/Flickr
In most places, tea is served piping hot and without sugar. So remember to be specific when ordering.
8. Your craving for catfish may require a few road trips back home.
Elliot/Flickr
I think it’s safe to say us Mississippians are pretty spoiled when it comes to fried catfish, and unfortunately, no fried fish you find anywhere else will even come close.
9. Summer and humidity don’t always go hand in hand.
Lari Huttunen/Flickr
It’s hard to imagine summers without humidity, but they actually do exist.
10. Say "fixin’ to" and you’re bound to get a strange look (or two).
Jay Morrison/Flickr
Sure, this expression is as common as sweet tea in the South. But use it up north, and be prepared to do a bit of explaining.
11. People will point out your accent – a lot.
Mr. George1/Flickr
You might not think you have an accent, but as soon as you open your mouth in a new place, you’ll quickly be reminded that you do.
12. Your cookin’ is sure to win over your neighbors.
ht/Flickr
Whip up some fried chicken, greens, or any other quintessential southern dish, and your neighbors are sure to become lifelong friends.
13. You’ll miss Mississippi a lot more than you thought you would.
Susie Gallaway/Flickr
No matter how much you love your new place, Mississippi will always be home, and there’s no place like it.

So, what else would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments section.

If you enjoyed this, be sure to check out “13 Foods Every Mississippian Craves When They Leave Mississippi.“

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