The Biloxi Teacher's Guide: A Career and Lifestyle Breakdown

If you're an elementary school teacher eyeing the Gulf Coast, Biloxi offers a unique blend of Southern charm, historic neighborhoods, and a surprisingly affordable cost of living. This guide isn't about sugar-coating life on the Coast; it's a direct, data-driven look at what it’s actually like to teach and live in the "Seafood Capital of the World." As a local, I'll walk you through the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the nuance you won't find on a recruitment flyer.

The Salary Picture: Where Biloxi Stands

Let’s start with the bottom line. The salary for an elementary school teacher in Biloxi is competitive within Mississippi but trails the national average. According to the latest data, the Median Salary for our teachers is $61,626/year, which breaks down to an Hourly Rate of $29.63. The National Average sits at $63,670/year, meaning Biloxi teachers earn about 3% less than their peers nationwide. However, the Cost of Living Index for Biloxi is 89.3 (US avg = 100), so that dollar stretches further here.

The job market is stable but not booming. The Metro Population of Biloxi is 49,011, and there are approximately Jobs in Metro: 245 teaching positions. The 10-Year Job Growth is a modest 1%, indicating a steady need for replacements rather than rapid expansion. This stability can be a pro for those seeking long-term positions.

Experience-Level Breakdown

While specific district salary schedules vary, typical salary progression aligns with years of experience and education credits. Here’s a general breakdown for the Biloxi area:

Experience Level	Typical Years	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-3 years	$48,000 - $53,000	Classroom management, developing lesson plans, completing required induction programs.
Mid-Career	4-10 years	$55,000 - $62,000	Leading grade-level teams, mentoring new teachers, specialized instructional strategies.
Senior/Expert	11+ years	$63,000 - $70,000+	Departmental leadership, curriculum development, advanced certifications (e.g., National Board).

How Biloxi Compares to Other MS Cities

Biloxi is part of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, a region with its own economic dynamics. Here’s how teachers stack up against larger cities in the state:

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US=100)	Key Notes
Biloxi	$61,626	89.3	Lower salary but significantly cheaper living; strong community feel.
Jackson	$62,100	84.5	State capital; more government and charter school options; similar cost living.
Gulfport	$60,800	90.1	Sister city to Biloxi; similar salaries; larger retail & healthcare hub.
Hattiesburg	$58,900	88.0	Home to USM; lower salaries but vibrant college town atmosphere.
U.S. Average	$63,670	100.0	National benchmark; higher pay in high-cost coastal cities (e.g., CA, NY).

Insider Tip: While Gulfport’s median salary is slightly lower, the Biloxi-Gulfport-D'Iberville metro area is one labor market. Many teachers live in one city and work in another. Commutes are easy via Highway 90 or I-10.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $61,626 salary sounds solid, but what’s left after taxes and rent? Let’s break down a monthly budget for a single teacher (no dependents), using Mississippi’s state income tax brackets and the local Average 1BR Rent of $923/month.

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• Gross Monthly Pay: $5,135.50
• Estimated Deductions (30%): $1,540 (Federal, State, FICA, & Insurance)
• Net Take-Home Pay: ~$3,595
• Rent (1BR): $923
• Utilities (Avg.): $180 (Electricity, Water, Internet)
• Groceries: $350
• Car Insurance/Gas: $250
• Health & Misc: $200
• Discretionary Savings/Spending: $1,692

This leaves a healthy $1,692 for savings, student loans, or leisure. The key here is the affordable rent. In Biloxi, you can find a decent 1-bedroom apartment in a safe area for under $1,000, a rarity in many U.S. metros.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

Yes, absolutely. With a median home price in Biloxi around $180,000, a teacher’s salary qualifies comfortably. Using the 28% rule (no more than 28% of gross income on housing), your maximum mortgage payment should be $1,438/month. A $180,000 home with 10% down ($18,000) at a 6% interest rate would have a principal & interest payment of about $970/month, plus taxes and insurance ($400), totaling ~$1,370/month. This is within the safe range, making homeownership a very realistic goal after a few years of saving for a down payment.

Where the Jobs Are: Biloxi's Major Employers

The vast majority of elementary teaching jobs are with the Biloxi Public School District, but it’s not the only option. Here are the key employers, including private and charter schools.

1. Biloxi Public Schools (BPSD): The largest employer with 10 elementary schools (e.g., Jeff Davis Elementary, Popps Ferry Elementary, D'Iberville Elementary). BPSD has a strong focus on STEM and arts integration. Hiring Trend: Steady, with occasional openings in upper elementary (Grades 3-5) and special education. They actively recruit from local universities like William Carey.
2. Harrison County School District: While based in Gulfport, this district includes schools on the west side of Biloxi (e.g., Lyman Elementary). Salaries are comparable to BPSD. Hiring Trend: Growth in the D'Iberville area has created openings. Slightly larger district with more specialized programs.
3. St. John Catholic School: A K-8 private school in downtown Biloxi. Offers a faith-based curriculum and smaller class sizes. Hiring Trend: Less turnover, but openings do occur, especially for early childhood. Requires a Catholic background or willingness to teach religion.
4. Biloxi Charter School Academy (BCSA): A K-5 charter school with a focus on individualized learning. Part of the statewide charter network. Hiring Trend: Charters often hire teachers with innovative pedagogical approaches. More flexibility in curriculum but less union protection than traditional districts.
5. St. Patrick Catholic School (Gulfport): Another private option serving the region, drawing from Biloxi families. Hiring Trend: Similar to St. John’s—stable with niche openings.
6. Keesler Air Force Base (DoD Schools): Keesler is a major Biloxi employer. The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) runs schools on base for military families. Hiring Trend: Requires federal application, specific certifications, and background checks. Positions are competitive and offer federal benefits.
7. Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC): While not an elementary employer, MGCCC’s Early Childhood Education program is a key pipeline for new teachers and offers professional development opportunities for current educators.

Insider Tip: The best way to find openings is to monitor the BPSD and Harrison County HR websites directly, as they post before appearing on general job boards. Also, the Mississippi Department of Education job board lists positions statewide.

Getting Licensed in MS

Mississippi has a streamlined but strict licensing process through the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE). You cannot teach without a valid license.

Steps & Requirements:

1. Education: Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.75 GPA. Complete a state-approved teacher preparation program (like those at USM, Jackson State, or MGCCC).
2. Testing: Pass the Praxis Core (Reading, Writing, Math) and relevant Praxis Subject Assessments (e.g., Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects). Cost: ~$250-$400 for all tests.
3. Application: Submit an online application to MDE, including transcripts, test scores, and a background check. Cost: Application fee is about $125.
4. Initial License: If all requirements are met, you’ll receive a 3-year Initial Educator License.
5. Induction Program: Mississippi requires first-year teachers to complete the Mississippi Teacher Professional Development Program, which includes mentoring and coursework.

Timeline to Get Started: If you’re a recent graduate, the process can take 2-4 months after passing tests. For out-of-state teachers, you’ll need to apply for reciprocity. Mississippi has reciprocity agreements with most states, but you may need to take additional courses or tests to meet MS-specific requirements (e.g., Mississippi Studies). Insider Tip: Contact the MDE’s licensure office before moving to clarify your specific path. The process is bureaucratic but doable.

Best Neighborhoods for Elementary School Teachers

Biloxi’s neighborhoods vary widely in vibe and price. Here’s a breakdown of top areas for teachers, focusing on safety, commute, and community.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Rent Estimate (1BR)	Best For...
Downtown Biloxi	Historic, walkable, close to restaurants, Keesler, and the beach. Short commute to most schools.	$900 - $1,200	Young professionals who want nightlife and culture.
North Biloxi (Near I-10)	Residential, family-oriented, quieter. Easy highway access to schools across the county.	$800 - $1,000	Families or teachers seeking space and affordability.
East Biloxi (Near Keesler)	Convenient for base employees, mix of older homes and new apartments. Very central.	$850 - $1,100	Those who work on base or want a central location.
Gulf Hills (East of Biloxi)	Suburban, wooded, with a community pool and tennis courts. 10-15 min drive to Biloxi.	$950 - $1,300	Families seeking a suburban feel within city limits.
D'Iberville (Just North)	Rapidly growing, with new retail and restaurants. Modern apartments, very safe.	$950 - $1,150	Teachers who prefer newer construction and easy access to I-110.

Insider Tip: For the best value and a true local feel, consider the Oak Park or Cedar Lake areas of Biloxi. These are quiet, established neighborhoods with older, charming homes and affordable rent, and they feed into good public schools.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Biloxi, career growth often means staying within the district and accumulating experience and credentials. The path is less about climbing a corporate ladder and more about deepening your impact.

• Specialty Premiums (Stipends): Most districts offer stipends for hard-to-fill positions. Expect $2,000-$5,000 more per year for:
  • Special Education (SPED): High demand, especially for severe/profound disabilities.
  • STEM/Computer Science: Growing emphasis in BPSD.
  • National Board Certification: Mississippi offers a $5,000 annual salary bonus for Nationally Board Certified Teachers (NBCT). This is a major career and financial boost.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Grade-Level Chair: Leading your team (often with a small stipend).
  2. Instructional Coach: Transitioning from classroom to supporting other teachers (requires advanced degree).
  3. Administrator: Requires a Master’s in Educational Leadership and a move to an assistant principal or principal role.
  4. Curriculum Specialist: Working at the district office on curriculum development.
• 10-Year Outlook (1% Growth): With minimal growth, traditional promotions will be competitive. The most reliable path to increasing your salary is through advanced degrees (Master’s or PhD) and pursuing National Board Certification. The demand for SPED and STEM specialists will remain high.

The Verdict: Is Biloxi Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes far, especially for housing.	Low Salary Growth: 10-year job growth is only 1%. Loyalty is rewarded, but lateral moves are rare.
Strong Community & Culture: Tight-knit neighborhoods, rich history, and Gulf Coast food.	Hurricane Risk: The area is in a flood zone. You must have a plan for hurricane season (June-Nov).
Stable Employment: Public school jobs are secure if you meet performance standards.	Limited Diversity in Economy: Heavily reliant on gaming, military, and tourism. Fewer niche teaching opportunities.
Affordable Homeownership: Buying a home is a realistic goal on a teacher’s salary.	Bureaucracy: Small-town politics can play a role in district decisions.
Proximity to Nature & Beach: Unbeatable access to the Gulf, fishing, and outdoor life.	Heat & Humidity: The climate is intense, especially August-October.

Final Recommendation: Biloxi is an excellent choice for teachers who value stability, affordability, and community over rapid career advancement and high salaries. It’s ideal for early-career teachers looking to buy a home or mid-career professionals seeking a slower pace of life. If you’re driven by high-stakes competition or need a diverse professional network, larger metros like Jackson or national opportunities might be a better fit. For those who want to teach, own a home, and enjoy a laid-back coastal lifestyle, Biloxi is a hidden gem.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to know about hurricanes to teach in Biloxi?
A: Yes. Schools close for hurricane warnings, and you’ll have a mandatory evacuation plan. The district has protocols, and teachers are expected to be prepared. It’s a part of life, but manageable.

Q: Is the cost of living really that low?
A: Absolutely. With a Cost of Living Index of 89.3, essentials like rent, groceries, and utilities are 10-15% below the national average. You’ll feel the difference immediately.

Q: What’s the school year like?
A: Traditional schedule, late August to late May. Mississippi has a 180-day requirement. Be prepared for a longer summer break than many states, but fewer built-in holidays during the school year.

Q: How do I find a place to rent?
A: Local Facebook groups like “Biloxi Rentals” and “Gulf Coast Housing” are more effective than national sites. Property management companies like Johnson Property Group or Crescent Real Estate handle many local rentals. Always check flood zones before signing a lease.

Q: Are there professional development opportunities?
A: Yes, through the district and the Mississippi Department of Education. The state offers grants for teachers to pursue National Board Certification. Biloxi also hosts annual education conferences at the Coast Coliseum.