Is Ridgeland Safe, Pros and cons of living in Ridgeland
Ridgeland, Mississippi, offers a blend of suburban comfort and accessibility, situated within the Jackson metropolitan area. This city is known for its pleasant climate, diverse population, and a cost of living that is generally lower than the national average. It presents a compelling option for those seeking a balance between affordability and quality of life in the South.
The community boasts a range of amenities and a job market supported by various industries. Residents can enjoy parks, recreational activities, and a generally peaceful environment. Understanding the nuances of life in Ridgeland, from its safety and economic landscape to its educational opportunities and daily living expenses, is key for anyone considering a move to this Mississippi city.
Is it Safe to Live in Ridgeland?
Ridgeland’s crime rate is reported to be higher than the national average, with 17 crimes per one thousand residents in a typical year (according to NeighborhoodScout). The chance of becoming a victim of crime in Ridgeland is estimated at 1 in 59 (according to NeighborhoodScout). Violent crime in Ridgeland occurs at a rate higher than in many communities across America, with the chance of being a victim of violent crime being 1 in 315 (according to NeighborhoodScout).
However, it’s important to note that crime rates can vary significantly by neighborhood. While the overall crime rate is a consideration, residents often find certain areas, particularly in the west of the city, to be safer than others (according to Crime Maps and Statistics). Property crime also remains a factor, with a rate of 14 per one thousand population (according to NeighborhoodScout), meaning there’s an above-average chance of becoming a victim of property crime compared to other communities nationwide.
Housing and Cost of Living
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Ridgeland presents a dynamic picture. As of March 2026, the median sale price for homes in Ridgeland was $379,000, showing a significant year-over-year increase of 23.0% (according to Redfin). Homes in Ridgeland are selling relatively quickly, with an average of 16 days on the market, compared to 30 days in the previous year (according to Redfin).
The median home value in Ridgeland is currently $179,900, which is higher than the state median of $114,500 but lower than the national median of $204,900 (according to HouseCashin). Ridgeland’s housing expenses are noted as being 43% higher than the national average (according to Payscale).
Rental Market
For those considering renting, the market in Ridgeland offers various options. As of May 2026, the average rent in Ridgeland is $1,125 per month, which is 31% lower than the national average (according to Apartments.com). Rental prices have seen an increase, with the average rent rising by 2.68% over the past year, moving from $1,270 to $1,304 (according to RentCafe).
The typical rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Ridgeland is around $1,125 per month (according to Apartments.com), while two-bedroom units average about $1,386 per month (according to Apartments.com). More spacious three-bedroom rentals can be found for $1,729 or more per month (according to Apartments.com).
Overall Cost of Living
Ridgeland’s cost of living is generally considered affordable. The city’s cost of living index is 97, which is 3% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). This is further supported by ERI Economic Research Institute data, which states Ridgeland is 9% less expensive than the national average (according to ERI Economic Research Institute).
When comparing to the state average, Ridgeland is 16% higher than the Mississippi average (according to AreaVibes). However, specific costs can vary; for instance, while housing expenses are higher than the national average, utility prices are 18% lower (according to Payscale). Transportation expenses are also notably lower, by 15% compared to the national average (according to Payscale).
Job Market and Economy
Major Employers
Ridgeland’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers. Key companies in the area include C Spire, a telecommunications company; Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company; and BancPlus Corporation (according to Zippia). Other significant employers in the broader Mississippi region that may impact Ridgeland’s job market include Nissan, McKesson, and McLane (according to Mississippi Development Authority).
The largest companies by revenue in the greater Ridgeland area include Gap Inc., Conduent, and Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (according to Lensa). These major employers contribute to the employment opportunities available to residents in various sectors.
Employment and Unemployment
As of April 2026, the average annual salary in Ridgeland is $44,695, equating to approximately $21.49 per hour (according to ZipRecruiter). However, another source indicates the average salary for jobs in Ridgeland is $59,411 per year or $29 per hour (according to ERI SalaryExpert). The median household income in Ridgeland was reported as $66,038 in 2024 (according to Point2Homes).
The unemployment rate in Mississippi was 3.7% in February 2026 (according to USAFacts). While specific recent unemployment data for Ridgeland is not readily available, the state’s rate suggests a relatively stable job market. The most common employment sectors for Ridgeland residents include Health Care & Social Assistance, Manufacturing, and Educational Services (according to Data USA).
Climate and Environment
Temperature and Weather Patterns
Ridgeland experiences a climate characterized by distinct seasons. Summers are long, hot, and can be oppressive, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 84°F from May to September (according to Weather Spark). July is typically the hottest month, with average highs around 91°F and lows around 73°F (according to Weather Spark).
Winters are short, cold, and wet, with average daily high temperatures below 63°F from late November to late February (according to Weather Spark). January is the coldest month, with average lows around 38°F and highs around 57°F (according to Weather Spark). The city experiences moderate temperature variations between day and night throughout the year.
Rainfall and Sunshine
The annual average precipitation in Ridgeland is approximately 56 inches (according to Livability.com). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, though March is typically the wettest month with about 5.5 inches of rain, and June is the driest with about 3.4 inches (according to Best Time to Visit). The chance of a wet day is higher from late December to late August, with July having the most days with precipitation (according to Weather Spark).
Sunshine hours vary seasonally, with June receiving the most daily sunshine, averaging around 9.9 hours (according to Best Time to Visit). The most favorable weather for visiting Ridgeland, with temperatures between 68°F and 82°F, typically occurs in March, April, May, October, and November (according to Best Time to Visit).
Education and Demographics
School Ratings and Performance
Ridgeland, MS public schools have an average ranking of 6 out of 10, placing them in the top 50% of Mississippi public schools (according to Niche). The average math proficiency score is 52%, and the reading proficiency score is 42%, which is in line with the Mississippi public school averages (according to Niche). Ridgeland High School is a notable institution, ranking 112th out of 232 Mississippi high schools with a 3-star rating (according to SchoolDigger).
The student-teacher ratio at Ridgeland High School is 14:1 (according to Niche). Highland Elementary School and Old Town Middle School are also among the top-ranked public schools in Ridgeland (according to Niche). Minority enrollment in Ridgeland public schools is 91% of the student body, which is higher than the Mississippi public school average (according to Niche).
Population and Demographics
Ridgeland is home to a population of approximately 24,587 residents (according to Point2Homes). The city’s population has seen a growth rate of 0.36% annually over the past ten years (according to HouseCashin). The median age in Ridgeland is 35.7 years (according to Data Commons).
The racial makeup of Ridgeland is diverse, with 46.4% identifying as Black or African American, 40.1% as White, and 6.5% as Hispanic (according to Point2Homes). The population is distributed across various age groups, with 16.1% under 15, 15.9% between 15 and 24, 29.5% between 25 and 44, 23.9% between 45 and 64, and 14.6% aged 65 and older (according to Point2Homes).