Jackson County sits on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and is one of the most economically active counties in the state. The county seat, Pascagoula, is a major industrial and shipbuilding center, home to major employers and the busy beachfront region. Other important cities include Ocean Springs, known for its artsy downtown and coastal charm; Gautier, with family-friendly neighborhoods; and Moss Point, which has a strong industrial and river-based heritage. The county features a mix of coastal marshlands, beaches, forests, and suburban communities. Outdoor recreation is abundant — residents enjoy boating, fishing, beaches, island access, and waterfront parks. Jackson County has a diverse economy driven by shipbuilding, manufacturing, military installations, tourism, and technology. Housing ranges from coastal cottages and waterfront homes to townhouses, modern suburban subdivisions, older ranch homes, and elevated properties near flood zones. Ocean Springs is one of the most desirable and artistic communities on the Gulf Coast, resulting in higher home values. Jackson County is fully urban–suburban with pockets of rural land inland. It sits only 45 minutes from Mobile, Alabama, and within an hour of New Orleans. Home prices vary widely. Existing homes generally range from $180,000 to $380,000, with waterfront homes costing significantly more. Building costs average $140–$200 per square foot, with elevated coastal builds on higher foundations costing more.