11 Surprising Things You May Not Expect When Moving To Mississippi
By Daniella DiRienzo|Published August 01, 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.
When moving to Mississippi, there are just some things that are to be expected. For instance, newcomers are almost certain they’ll experience sincere hospitality and surely they’ve heard about the great food. But as prepared as someone may think they are, there are always those few aspects that are sure to surprise. So, just what are these unexpected things new Mississippians should anticipate? Read on to find out.
1. Those new to Mississippi have surely heard about the heat; however, until you’ve experienced Mississippi humidity firsthand you can never fully grasp the concept of just how hot it is here in the Magnolia State.
2. And with that unbearable heat comes some of the biggest mosquitoes you’ve ever seen. Sure people know there will be bugs in Mississippi, but the size and tenacity of our mosquitoes can be truly surprising to newcomers.
3. Just because you’re moving to Mississippi doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on big city amenities. With large cities like Jackson, Hattiesburg, Biloxi, and Gulfport, you can expect to experience the same amenities you’ve grown accustomed to in any other state.
4. Sure many are aware that Mississippi’s cost of living is lower than a lot of other places, but just how much lower may come as a shock. It just so happens that the Magnolia State’s cost of living is about 15% lower than the national average, meaning moving to Mississippi will put some major bucks in your wallet.
5. Patriotism is a trait that every state should possess, but before moving to Mississippi you need to understand the magnitude of the state’s love for the country and the men and women who defend it. The state celebrates troops of both the past and present and was actually the innovator of Memorial Day.
6. Think moving to Mississippi means you won’t be able to get a good education? Think again. Those new to the area and hoping to continue their education can expect to have lots of options because the state is home to over 50, (yes, that’s right, 50) colleges, universities, and technical schools.
7. In addition to seeing the American flag proudly displayed just about everywhere, you will see the Confederate flag. Many out-of-towners are initially a bit surprised by this, but to some Mississippians it is a matter of preserving our state’s heritage.
8. Sure, it is common knowledge that Mississippi is located in the Bible belt; however, those new to the area may not expect religion to play such a huge role in the everyday lives of Mississippians. Just to put it in perspective, a recent survey showed that 61% of Mississippians consider themselves to be “very religious,” and don’t forget the state is home to one of the largest Baptist populations in the world.
9. Hunting is associated with Mississippi on such a frequent basis that new residents may not expect fishing to be such a popular past time amongst the state’s residents. But with so many amazing water sources, fishing is actually huge here in the Magnolia State.
10. Newcomers to the area may be shocked to see a young child with a gun, but it’s actually not that uncommon here in Mississippi. With most kids learning to responsibly handle firearms at a young age, shooting is more of a family activity.
11. The state of Mississippi has quite the impressive musical scene; something which many out-of-towners may not realize. Not only is our state the birthplace of both the King and the Blues, but Oxford’s music scene is comparable to that of Texas and Georgia.
If you’ve lived here for a while, help the newcomers out and share what they need to know. If you’re a newbie to the state yourself, what surprised you most?
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