11 Shocking Facts About Mississippi That Could Make You Want To Move
By Daniella DiRienzo|Published December 04, 2015
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as the Mississippi-based Parents & Kids Magazine. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
Anyone who resides in Mississippi will tell you it’s awesome. However, there are some out-of-towners who may need solid proof before being convinced. So if you’re one of those people, here are 11 facts about the state that will have you wanting to move quicker than you can get to the first crooked letter in Mississippi.
1. Among the state’s numerous colleges, universities, and technical schools, are several top ranked institutions. For example, Mississippi College, Mississippi State University, and the University of Mississippi are considered some of the best in the southeastern United States, while the Mississippi University for Women was included in US News and Report’s list of Best Southern Schools and as well as Forbes’ list of Best Public Colleges.
2. In addition to the four main interstates that run through Mississippi (I-10, I-20, I-55 and I-59), traveling throughout the state is made easy thanks to highways and state roads – all of which run through every major city and most small towns. Plus, traffic is usually a non-issue.
3. Yes, Mississippi’s income is lower than the national average, but did you know your money will go much further in the Magnolia State? A recent study found that $100 in Mississippi actually has a buying power of $125! Furthermore, Forbes magazine ranked 100 of the nation’s largest metro areas and Jackson came in 3rd as the best “Bang For Your Buck” city.
4. Mississippi is a historic state, steeped in culture. Need proof? There are nearly 1,400 sites included on the National Register of Historic Places, countless battlefields, Native American sites, plantations, and colonial settlements.
5. It’s no coincidence that Mississippi is a great place to retire. The state actually has an official retirement attraction program, which puts cities through an intense three month evaluation and ranks everything from cost of living to veteran services.
6. When it comes to fishing, Mississippi can’t be beat! Residents have ample opportunities to take part in the pastime thanks to so many great water sources. And don’t forget, Mississippi growers raise more catfish than any other state.
7. It’s a well-known fact that the average pay in Mississippi is lower than that of most states; however, did you know the state is extremely generous? Actually, according to the Catalogue of Philanthropy’s “Generosity Index,” it is the most charitable state.
8. Located in the Bible Belt, the fact that Mississippians are religious is definitely not headline-making news. But are you aware that the state has been ranked the most religious in the entire country? Over half of the state’s residents consider themselves to be “very religious” and Mississippi is home to one of the largest Baptist populations in the world.
9. Supporting the country’s troops is something Mississippi has always taken seriously. Throughout the Civil War, southern women decorated the graves of fallen soldiers. Once the war was over, a group of Columbus women decorated the graves of both Confederate and Union soldiers – this act eventually evolved into what we now know as Memorial Day.
10. Calling all car lovers! Mississippi’s Tupelo Automobile Museum has over 150 rare and collectible cars on display – one of the largest privately-owned collections in the country. Additionally, the state hosts Cruisin’ the Coast – an annual festival that brings over 7,500 antique, classic, and hot rod vehicles to the area.
11. Looking for some culture? Mississippi hosts all kinds of live performances, including the USA International Ballet Competition. The prestigious show can’t be seen anywhere else in the country except for Jackson.
Are you convinced yet? What are some other facts that’ll make people want to move to Mississippi? Surprised by anything on this list? Tell us in the comments section below!
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