Communities Near Stennis and Special Boat Team 22

Have you been transferred to Special BoatTeam 22 at Stennis? If so, you’re probably wondering where you should buy a home?

Surrounding Stennis Space Center are 3 distinct communities that offer different amenities and conveniences that are as individual as you are. Each of these three areas each appeal to different lifestyles and budgets.

Below are some differences and likenesses that give a good idea of what each community has to offer.

 

First, we have Picayune and Pearl River County, Ms.

Best for: Short commute and affordability

Pros

• Typically the shortest commute to Stennis (about 15–25 minutes).

• Generally lower home prices and property taxes than Slidell.

• More land, larger lots, and rural properties available.

• Very limited flood areas.

• Lowest crime rate in the area.

• Strong choice for buyers wanting acreage or a quieter lifestyle.

Cons

• Fewer shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

• Smaller-town atmosphere may not appeal to everyone.

• Longer drive for major airport access.

 

Next, we have Slidell and St. Tammany Parrish, La.

Best for: Amenities and access to New Orleans

Pros

• More restaurants, shopping, healthcare, and services.

• Easy access to New Orleans and the Northshore.

• Larger selection of newer subdivisions.

• Popular with military families who want suburban conveniences.

Cons

• Longer commute to Stennis (typically 30–45 minutes).

• Louisiana insurance costs can be significantly higher, especially homeowners insurance due to low elevation and rising flood insurance costs.

• Property taxes and insurance often make monthly ownership costs higher than expected.

• Crime rate is significantly higher than Picayune and/or Diamondhead.

 

And then finally Diamondhead or Hancock County, Ms.

Best for: Golf, boating, and retirement-style living

Pros

• Planned community with golf courses, pools, and recreation.

• Close to Bay St. Louis and Gulf Coast attractions.

• Attractive to officers, retirees, and professionals.

• Generally well-maintained neighborhoods.

Cons

• Commute is usually 25–35 minutes to Stennis.

• HOA fees are common.

• Less variety in housing styles compared with Slidell.

• Home owners insurance costs are significantly higher due to the proximity to the Gulf of America, low elevation and flood insurance costs.

 

Quick Comparison

 

Factor	Picayune	Slidell	Diamondhead
Commute to Stennis	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Affordability	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Shopping & Dining	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐
Large Lots/Acreage	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐
Golf/Boating Lifestyle	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Access to New Orleans	⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐

 

Summary:

 

• If you’re looking for safety and value: Picayune is often the strongest financial choice.

• If you’re wanting suburban amenities: Slidell is usually preferred.

• If you’re wanting a resort-style community: Diamondhead is hard to beat.

 

​Your Next Step:

Call or contact Core Alliance Realty for a free buyer consultation and we'll help you get the ball rolling. During our consultation we will discover your wants and needs, provide you with the best home buying tools, help you arrange the best VA financing, choose homes to look at, negotiate on your behalf and arrange the closing. Click here to fill out an online request or call us at 601-749-1900.