City Profile
Vicksburg, Mississippi
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Vicksburg, Mississippi, is a historic city perched high on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, renowned for its profound Civil War history and vibrant cultural character. Founded in the early 19th century and named after Methodist missionary Newitt Vick, the city served as a vital river port and the dramatic site of the pivotal 1863 Siege of Vicksburg. Today, Vicksburg blends its rich heritage—highlighted by the expansive Vicksburg National Military Park—with a growing reputation as a modern technological and logistics hub along the river corridor. People are drawn to Vicksburg for its distinct Southern charm, affordable cost of living, tight-knit community spirit, and unique scenic bluffs that offer sweeping views across the river into Louisiana.
Mississippi, located in the Southern United States, is characterized by its rich history, warm climate, and a predominantly rural, unhurried lifestyle. The state's economy, historically rooted in agriculture, particularly cotton, has diversified to include manufacturing and a rapidly expanding services sector, with major industries now encompassing automotive, shipbuilding, aerospace, forestry, and food processing. Living in Mississippi is generally affordable, boasting one of the lowest costs of living in the U.S., with housing, groceries, and utilities typically below the national average. The climate features mild winters, allowing for year-round outdoor activities.
How this 61/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 65 / 100 | 65.0 | 30% | 19.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 82.0 | 66.3 | 25% | 16.6 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $45,781 Income needed to live here: $42,000 Unemployment rate: 4.9% | 50.0 | 20% | 10.0 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: no usable reading Job growth rate: 1.5% | 50.0 | 15% | 7.5 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 72 / 100 | 72.0 | 10% | 7.2 |
| Overall score | 60.8 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=84), last refreshed
11 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Vicksburg is notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious families, retirees, and young professionals alike. Housing costs stand out as a primary driver of affordability, with median home values and average rents resting well below typical U.S. benchmarks, allowing residents to secure significantly more space for their money. Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and local transportation are similarly economical, helping stretch household incomes further despite regional economic challenges.
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Vicksburg's economy is anchored by a robust mix of federal research facilities, manufacturing, river logistics, and tourism, creating a surprisingly dynamic market for a city of its size. The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) stands as the region's premier employer, bringing thousands of high-paying scientific and engineering jobs to the area. Additionally, the Port of Vicksburg acts as one of the largest inland ports on the Mississippi River, driving substantial activity in freight, manufacturing, and distribution, complemented by a thriving riverboat casino and tourism sector.
The average salary in Vicksburg is $45,000 per year. You would need approximately $42,000 to live comfortably.
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Getting around Vicksburg is heavily car-dependent, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for daily commuting and errands. The city is strategically positioned along Interstate 20 and U.S. Highway 61, providing smooth regional connectivity to Jackson and other major hubs. While public transit options are limited and walkability is concentrated primarily in compact pockets of the historic downtown, average commute times are short and manageable.
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