Oxford vs Hattiesburg: cost of living comparison

Oxford vs Hattiesburg is a useful comparison for anyone deciding where to live in Mississippi, especially because the two cities offer different housing markets, job opportunities, and lifestyles. Oxford is smaller and strongly influenced by the University of Mississippi, while Hattiesburg is a larger regional center with two universities, healthcare employers, and more affordable housing. Current data shows that Hattiesburg generally gives residents more room in their housing budget, while Oxford commands higher home prices and rents. If you are considering either city, comparing the costs that affect your monthly budget can help you decide which location fits your needs before working with experienced movers in Mississippi.

Oxford vs Hattiesburg at a Glance

Both cities are college towns, but they feel quite different.

Oxford had an estimated population of about 26,800 in 2025. It is best known as the home of the University of Mississippi and for its historic Square, restaurants, literary history, and college-town atmosphere.

Hattiesburg is nearly twice as large, with a population of around 48,500 based on recent Census estimates. It is home to the University of Southern Mississippi and William Carey University. Healthcare, education, retail, and regional services also play major roles in the local economy.

From a cost perspective, the biggest distinction is housing. Oxford has become one of Mississippi’s more expensive housing markets, while Hattiesburg remains considerably more accessible for many buyers and renters.

Which Is Cheaper: Oxford or Hattiesburg?

For most households, Hattiesburg is the more affordable choice, particularly when housing is included.

Recent cost-of-living estimates also support that conclusion. Housing represents the largest difference between the cities, while expenses such as food, transportation, and utilities tend to be closer.

That does not automatically make Hattiesburg the better choice for everyone. Oxford offers a different environment, and some residents are willing to pay more to live close to Ole Miss, the Square, and the city’s cultural and entertainment options.

Your decision should therefore consider both your monthly budget and what you want from the city where you live.

Housing Costs in Oxford vs Hattiesburg

Housing creates the clearest financial difference in the Oxford vs Hattiesburg comparison.

According to U.S. Census Bureau 2020–2024 data, the median value of owner-occupied housing in Oxford was approximately $385,700. In Hattiesburg, it was about $165,900.

That means Oxford’s median owner-occupied home value was more than twice Hattiesburg’s figure.

Monthly costs for homeowners with a mortgage also differ considerably. Oxford’s median selected monthly owner cost was approximately $2,044, compared with $1,364 in Hattiesburg.

For someone hoping to purchase a home, Hattiesburg therefore offers a substantially lower entry point.

If Oxford remains your preferred destination despite the higher housing costs, experienced movers Oxford MS can help you plan the relocation once you have chosen your new home.

Is Rent Cheaper in Oxford or Hattiesburg?

Hattiesburg also has an advantage for renters, although the difference depends on which type of rental data you examine.

Census data for 2020–2024 puts median gross rent at approximately $1,071 in Oxford and $1,005 in Hattiesburg.

Current apartment listings show a wider gap.

As of July 2026, Apartments.com reports an average one-bedroom apartment rent of about $1,308 in Oxford. The comparable figure in Hattiesburg is approximately $936.

Two-bedroom apartments also tend to cost more in Oxford, especially in areas close to the university and downtown.

The University of Mississippi has a major influence on Oxford’s rental market. Demand from students, faculty, employees, and people who want to live near the campus can place additional pressure on rents.

Hattiesburg also has a large student population. However, its larger housing supply and broader geographic footprint provide renters with more options at different price points.

Why Is Oxford Housing More Expensive?

Oxford combines a relatively small housing market with strong demand.

The University of Mississippi is one of the main influences. Students, university employees, alumni, investors, and people who want second homes can all compete for housing.

Oxford’s downtown area and the neighborhoods surrounding Ole Miss are particularly desirable. Properties in convenient locations can therefore command a premium.

The city has also grown. Census estimates show Oxford’s population increased by approximately 5% between the 2020 estimate base and 2025.

If you are thinking about relocating there, our comparison of moving to Oxford MS and nearby cities provides more context about the housing market and everyday life.

Cost of Living in Hattiesburg

Hattiesburg remains relatively affordable compared with many U.S. cities.

Current cost-of-living estimates put the city’s overall expenses around 10% below the national average. Housing is particularly affordable, at roughly 21% below the national benchmark according to current market estimates.

Groceries, utilities, and transportation also tend to come in below national averages.

However, affordability should always be considered alongside income. A city with cheaper housing does not automatically leave every resident with more disposable income.

Your occupation, household size, transportation needs, health insurance, and lifestyle will all influence how much you actually spend.

If the lower housing costs make Hattiesburg more attractive, moving companies in Hattiesburg MS can help once you are ready to relocate.

Income in Oxford vs Hattiesburg

Income provides another useful perspective when comparing the two cities.

Oxford has a strong education-centered economy. The University of Mississippi is a major employer, while healthcare, hospitality, retail, professional services, and businesses serving the university community also support local employment.

Oxford’s per capita income was approximately $41,665 according to Census 2020–2024 data.

Hattiesburg has a broader regional employment base. Major sectors include healthcare, education, retail, manufacturing, and professional services.

Forrest General Hospital and the University of Southern Mississippi are among the institutions that contribute significantly to the local economy.

Salary alone should not determine which city is more affordable. A higher income can quickly be offset by higher housing costs, which is particularly relevant in Oxford.

Utilities and Everyday Expenses

Utilities are unlikely to be the deciding factor between Oxford and Hattiesburg.

Electricity use in Mississippi can rise substantially during hot summers because of air conditioning. The size and energy efficiency of your home will often have more influence on your utility bills than the city itself.

Food expenses also tend to be relatively similar compared with the much larger housing difference.

Instead of relying on individual prices for milk, bread, restaurant meals, or gasoline, consider how your own household spends money each month.

A family that cooks most meals at home will have a different budget from someone who frequently eats out. Likewise, someone working remotely may spend less on transportation than a person commuting every day.

Transportation in Oxford vs Hattiesburg

A car remains the most practical transportation option for many residents of both cities.

Oxford has a compact central area, and some residents living near downtown or the University of Mississippi can walk or use local transit for part of their daily routine.

However, people living farther from campus will often depend on a vehicle.

Hattiesburg covers a larger area. Daily life is generally car-oriented, particularly for people living outside Downtown or Midtown.

The city does have an advantage when it comes to regional access. Its location near major highways makes destinations such as Jackson, the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Mobile, and New Orleans relatively accessible.

Transportation costs should therefore include more than gasoline. Consider your commute, parking, insurance, vehicle maintenance, and how often you expect to travel outside the city.

Jobs and Education

Both cities are strongly influenced by higher education.

Oxford

Oxford is home to the University of Mississippi, commonly known as Ole Miss. The university affects employment, housing demand, entertainment, sports, and the overall character of the city.

Education is therefore one of Oxford’s strongest economic sectors.

The university also contributes to a highly educated local population. More than half of Oxford residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor’s degree or higher according to Census data.

Hattiesburg

Hattiesburg is home to both the University of Southern Mississippi and William Carey University.

Healthcare is another major source of employment. Forrest General Hospital and other medical providers make the city an important healthcare center for southern Mississippi.

Hattiesburg’s larger population also supports more retail, restaurants, services, and other employers.

For someone whose career is not connected to higher education, Hattiesburg may offer a broader range of industries within the immediate area.

Lifestyle: Oxford vs Hattiesburg

Cost is only one part of choosing where to live.

Oxford has a distinctive college-town identity. The Square is the center of much of the city’s dining, shopping, and nightlife, while Ole Miss football brings particularly busy periods during the fall.

The city also has strong literary associations, including its connection with author William Faulkner.

Oxford may suit people who want a smaller, compact community with a strong university and cultural presence.

Hattiesburg feels more like a regional city.

It offers a larger selection of shopping, medical services, restaurants, and residential areas. Residents also have access to the Longleaf Trace, local parks, museums, and other recreation.

Another advantage is location. Hattiesburg puts residents closer to the Mississippi Gulf Coast and New Orleans than Oxford does.

If you want to understand the city in more detail before choosing it, our guide to moving to Hattiesburg covers the location, housing market, employment, and local lifestyle.

Moving Between Oxford and Hattiesburg

Oxford and Hattiesburg are separated by roughly 240 to 260 miles, depending on the route.

The drive generally takes around four hours, so moving between the cities requires more preparation than a typical local move.

It remains an intrastate Mississippi relocation. However, furniture and boxes will spend several hours in transit, making proper packing and loading particularly important.

For other moves across the state, experienced Mississippi long distance movers can help coordinate longer relocations

Who Should Choose Oxford?

Oxford may be the better fit if you:

• Work or study at the University of Mississippi
• Prefer a smaller college-town atmosphere
• Want to live near the Square and local cultural attractions
• Value a highly educated community
• Are comfortable allocating more of your budget to housing
• Enjoy college sports and university events

The higher housing costs are the main financial tradeoff.

For buyers in particular, the difference between Oxford and Hattiesburg is substantial.

Who Should Choose Hattiesburg?

Hattiesburg may make more sense if you:

• Want lower home prices
• Want more affordable rental options
• Prefer a larger city with more residential areas
• Work in healthcare, education, or regional services
• Want easier access to the Gulf Coast and New Orleans
• Prefer to put less of your monthly budget toward housing

Hattiesburg generally provides more affordable housing while still offering universities, healthcare, restaurants, entertainment, and other city amenities.

Oxford vs Hattiesburg: Which City Is Better for Your Budget?

In the Oxford vs Hattiesburg cost-of-living comparison, Hattiesburg has the stronger affordability advantage. Home values are significantly lower, rents are generally more affordable, and overall living expenses remain below the national average.

Oxford comes with a higher housing price tag, but residents gain access to a distinctive university community, the historic Square, cultural attractions, and everything associated with life near Ole Miss.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your income, housing budget, job, and preferred lifestyle. Once you decide where you want to live, Spyder Moving and Storage can help you plan your relocation within Mississippi.