Founded in 1904, this Mississippi town was named by Eliza Poitevent Nicholson, the owner and the publisher of the newspaper in nearby New Orleans, the "Daily Picayune." The newspaper's name is the name of a Spanish coin, which was how much the paper cost when it was first sold.
Even though it's 45 minutes east and in another state, Picayune is now considered part of the larger New Orleans metro area
Founded in 1904, this Mississippi town was named by Eliza Poitevent Nicholson, the owner and the publisher of the newspaper in nearby New Orleans, the "Daily Picayune." The newspaper's name is the name of a Spanish coin, which was how much the paper cost when it was first sold.
Even though it's 45 minutes east and in another state, Picayune is now considered part of the larger New Orleans metro area. At a population of 10,878 in the 2010 census, Picayune is the largest city in Pearl River County, MS. It's the last town you'll pass through on I-59 if you're driving into New Orleans. Travel west on nearby I-10 to reach the Gulf beaches, Gulfport and Biloxi in less than an hour. Located just 10 miles south of town, the Stennis Space Center employs many town residents. Picayune is a good choice for those wanting a slower pace of life with plenty of action just a short drive away.
Moving to Picayune
Picayune's Hurricane Katrina damage wasn't as severe as other nearby cities, so many people relocated to Picayune after the storm and just never moved back. Rental apartments can be found on the western side of town especially around Hwy 11. A cluster of Picayune apartments for rent can be found between E. Canal Street and Memorial Boulevard just off of Interstate 59. Smaller, independent apartments can be found scattered throughout the more downtown area of town and you might even be able to score a month to month lease with a private landlord. Wherever you look for a rental, make sure you bring with you paperwork showing proof of employment and an ID. You'll also be expected to agree to a credit report, so make sure there are no surprises!
Picayune Neighborhoods
Picayune is divided into four main neighborhoods, each with their own charm and draw. Be sure to research thoroughly before locking down your new home, as renter's remorse is no fun for anyone!
Henleyfield: On the west end of town, Henleyfield borders the Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge. It's west of I-59, so it might be a bit of a drive to work or other parts of the town. You can definitely find places to live in this rural land, but it'll be rental houses and larger, older ones at that and not apartments.
Hide-A-Way Lake: I-59 goes through the center of this neighborhood in the northern central part of Picayune. While the area is named for the lake in the southern tip of it, there's also another lake Anchor Lake in the northern part of the neighborhood and both are popular recreational spots for residents. This is your best bet for apartment complexes, including studio apartments for rent.
Caesar: Caesar and Crane Creek make up the eastern side of Picayune. I-59 forms the western border of the neighborhood, so hopping on the interstate and traveling to other areas is a cinch. Finding a rental in this sought-after spot won't be easy. Focus solely on rental homes to save you time and energy since there aren't many apartment complexes in this neighborhood.
Crane Creek: This far eastern corner of town has remained mostly undeveloped so far. If you crave open spaces and few neighbors, this is the place for you. Sweet Serenity Tea Room and Panda Palace Chinese Restaurant are in this area.
Living in Picayune
Get a taste of a bygone era by eating at the Frostop Drive-In just off of E. Canal Street and Hwy 11. Serving up frothy root beers, hot dogs and po' boys, it's one of the last remaining Frostop restaurants. Plant aficionados should visit the Crosby Arboretum, a native plant conservatory, one of Picayune's many parks and the Annual Blues Out music and art walk.
