The population of Picayune is about 32,000 if you include surrounding communities that are within a 10 minute drive. The gently rolling hills, clean air and water, and short winters contribute to an easy-going country atmosphere in Picayune that is unrivaled and makes you feel like you belong.
Picayune has its rural atmosphere and hometown values, yet has its own cultural, educational, and recreational amenities. As a bonus, New Orleans and the Mississippi Gulf Coast and their cultures are less than an hour's drive away.
The climate is one of the most enjoyable aspects of life in Picayune. It allows year round outdoor activities of hunting and fishing, gardening, or simply loafing under your favorite shade tree. While we enjoy a change of seasons, the winters are relatively mild and there are 246 days between killing frosts. We have an annual average of 61 inches of rain and temperature of 67 degrees F. These favorable combinations of rainfall and temperatures give Picayune a very favorable climate for gardening, which is a favorite local pastime.
Live in a well-established neighborhood within the city limits, reside beside a quiet lake, or enjoy country living on that acreage that you have always wanted. No matter what your choice, affordable housing within Picayune and the surrounding area is in abundance. According to the National Association of Realtors, the price for single-family homes for metropolitan areas in Mississippi is only 65 percent of the United States average.
PROPERTY TAXES
The Picayune and Pearl River County property taxes are computed using the assessed values. If the property is the primary residence a "Homestead Exemption" is applied after a year, and for example, the total county and Picayune tax on a $100,000 residence is about $1,200 per year.
INSURANCE
The cost of residential insurance varies according to location and proximity to fire protection assets. For example, insurance for a $100,000 brick home with a $250 deductible policy will cost about $490 inside the city limits while insurance on the same home outside the city may cost about $1,100 per year. An average estimate range of $500 to $700 per year would be a reasonable estimate for the cost of insurance.
PEACEFUL COMMUNITY
We are a peaceful community where both personal safety and property are equally respected and protected. Picayune enjoys a very low crime rate. The Picayune Police force which maintains the peace is composed of 34 individuals, 22 of which are uniformed officers. They are well trained and use the most recent equipment and procedures. Areas outside of the city limits are equally as well protected by the Pearl River County Sheriff's Department.
In addition, The City of Picayune is protected by a Fire Department composed
of three engine companies. It is one of the best equipped in south Mississippi. Outlying localities have volunteer fire departments that are augmented by the Picayune Fire Department on an as required and as available basis.
Leisure living in Picayune includes the year-round schedule of recreational and cultural activities. These range from out-doors activities of hunting, fishing, golf, and tennis, to cultural activities such as the "Picayune On Stage" little theater group that produces five plays each year. Within an hours drive, in New Orleans, one can find the Louisiana Symphony Orchestra, opera, ballet, theater, jazz, professional football, the Audubon Zoo, the Aquarium of the Americas, as well as a variety of annual events such as Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festivals. Also, as an additional recreational diversion there are numerous casinos operating along the Gulf Coast.
SALES TAXES
7% on retail sales
5% on new and used automobiles
2% tourism tax in Picayune
Courtesy http://www.picayune.ms.us/retirement.htm
Photos courtesy http://www.picayunechamber.org
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