Named by Dr. William Glover Austin in 1854, many believed the springs in Ocean Springs had healing properties. The jury’s still out about that fact, but at the very least the relaxing atmosphere is sure to calm your nerves.
An artsy community on the Gulf Coast, Ocean Springs is well known for all kinds of festivals, art galleries, eccentric boutiques and ethnic restaurants that you would have trouble finding anywhere else in Mississippi
Named by Dr. William Glover Austin in 1854, many believed the springs in Ocean Springs had healing properties. The jury’s still out about that fact, but at the very least the relaxing atmosphere is sure to calm your nerves.
An artsy community on the Gulf Coast, Ocean Springs is well known for all kinds of festivals, art galleries, eccentric boutiques and ethnic restaurants that you would have trouble finding anywhere else in Mississippi. In 1699, it became the first permanent French Outpost in French Louisiana, and this history is commemorated yearly with re-enactments of the landing and a permanent replica of the original fort, Fort Maurapas. Alongside the art community, it has a well-developed fishing industry that provides fresh fish and other seafood to the area. The laid back culture and relatively well-off community has a large number of families who enjoy low crime, good schools and a quiet life. The lack of a nightlife, excitement and there being no large cities nearby are a problem for people who like the trendy side of life.
The good thing about planning an apartment search in Ocean Springs is that the vacancy rate is rather high. Of the four neighborhoods, three of them are a renters market, so the landlords are a little desperate to find tenants. This means with a bit of negotiation, you should be able to find some great deals on 1, 2 and even 3 bedroom apartments in Ocean Springs.
One thing you really want to bargain over is landing a place with all utilities paid. It's Mississippi, so the summers are hot and humid. That means A/C is a must--unless you enjoy sweating like a pig.
Beware of Mold
Because of the humidity, frequent storms and general dampness, you have to be very careful about mold. When you're looking at your beautiful 2 bedroom apartment, have a flashlight ready and check every dark corner. You may be a bit embarrassed at checking everything with the owner watching, but you'll be more embarrassed a week later when your guests find some black mold in your brand new house. And since they need to find people to rent to, most landlords won't complain. If you do happen to get complaints regarding your thoroughness, there are plenty of other places in town, and let's be real, you probably don't want someone who is that thin skinned having control of your lease.
What You Need
It's really easy to rent in Ocean Springs, and you won't need mob connections to get it done. Just have first month's rent, damage deposit, a credit report (not even a requirement for some places) and a referral. If you're willing to put down a larger deposit and first and last months' rent, you can probably skip the credit check and referral.
There are four distinct neighborhoods in town, two right on the coast, and two inland. The rent in these areas changes fairly quickly, depending on location.
City Center: One reason the rent in this seaside neighborhood is cheap is that most of the rentals are for small homes and apartments, generally 1 bedroom apartments and 2 bedroom homes. $$
Halstead Rd.: Most of the homes here are not for rent, but there are a few low-rise apartments available if you want to be beside the Gulf Islands National Seashore. $$$
Gulf Hills: A popular place to live because it is a little higher than the surrounding area and receives a regular, cool sea breeze. $$$$
Fountainebleau: Made up almost entirely of houses, it's popular for growing families who need a 3 bedroom home in Ocean Springs. $$$$$
Art is an important hobby and industry for the town The natural scenery is frequently painted and photographed by locals and tourists alike, and is as big a draw as the Museum of Art and other art galleries. Be sure to check it out on a weekend--if you can avoid all the foot traffic in the nearby shops.
Being on the coast, boating, fishing and swimming in the Gulf of Mexico is also a large part of life, with fresh seafood served as part of most meals.
For people wanting to get away from the big city and who enjoy seafood and art, you can't go wrong renting a home at Ocean Springs.
