📍 About GPT & Gulfport
Gulfport–Biloxi International Airport (GPT) serves the Mississippi Gulf Coast and is located in Gulfport, MS. The region combines beautiful beaches, affordable living, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle with strong southern hospitality, making it an attractive location for air traffic controllers and their families.
🏡 Where to Live
Popular Areas
- Gulfport – Close to the airport, family-friendly, affordable
- Biloxi – Beach town feel with casinos, entertainment, and history
- Ocean Springs – Quaint downtown, artsy, walkable, highly rated schools
- Long Beach – Small-town charm, safe neighborhoods, near the beach
- D'Iberville – Convenient shopping, close to Biloxi and I-10
🚗 Commute Times to GPT
- 5–15 min: Gulfport, Long Beach
- 15–25 min: Biloxi, D'Iberville
- 25–35 min: Ocean Springs, Pass Christian
🎓 Top School Districts
🧳 Things to Do – Local & Nearby
🌴 Outdoor Activities
- Beaches: Gulfport Beach, Biloxi Beach, Long Beach
- Boating & Fishing: Gulfport Harbor, Back Bay Biloxi, charter trips
- Golf: Great Southern Golf Club, Bayou Vista, Windance CC
🎭 Indoor & Cultural
- Casinos: Beau Rivage, Island View, Hard Rock Biloxi
- Family Fun: Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, Mississippi Aquarium
- Museums: Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art, Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum
- Shopping: Edgewater Mall, Gulfport Premium Outlets
✈️ Nearby Airports
- Gulfport–Biloxi International Airport (GPT): On-site – regional commercial flights
- Mobile Regional Airport (MOB): ~1.5 hours – additional flight options
- New Orleans International Airport (MSY): ~1.5–2 hours – major international hub
🧭 Helpful Resources for Newcomers
🛡️ Crime & Safety + Town Info
- Ocean Springs & Long Beach: Known for safety and family appeal
- Biloxi & Gulfport: Varies by neighborhood; check local PD data
- D'Iberville: Generally safe with new development
💰 Cost of Living
- Median Home Price: ~$190,000 in Gulfport; ~$240,000 in Ocean Springs
- Average 1BR Rent: ~$850–$1,200/month
- Utilities: ~$140–$180/month
- Groceries & Gas: ~10–15% below national average
- State Taxes: Mississippi has state income tax (~5%)
🌆 Neighborhood Highlights
- Downtown Ocean Springs: Walkable, boutique shops, artsy vibe
- Downtown Gulfport: Revitalized area near the harbor
- East Biloxi: Waterfront homes and resort-style living
☀️ Seasonal Weather
- Winter: Mild, lows in the 40s
- Spring: Warm and humid, storm season begins
- Summer: Hot and humid, highs in the 90s
- Fall: Warm and breezy, hurricane season ends by November
🚇 Transportation & Traffic
- Car recommended: Limited public transit options
- Gulf Transit: Basic service in Gulfport and Biloxi area
- Traffic: Generally light; occasional I-10 congestion
🏥 Healthcare & Urgent Care
- Memorial Hospital Gulfport
- Merit Health Biloxi
- Coastal Urgent Care / American Family Care
🫂 Social Life & Community
- Young Professionals: Casinos, bars, and beachside events
- Families: Coastal activities, museums, community sports
- Community: Active volunteer and church networks
🍽️ Dining & Food Scene
- Seafood: Half Shell Oyster House, Shaggy’s, The Reef
- Southern Eats: White Cap, Desporte & Sons, Mary Mahoney’s
- International: Le Bakery (Vietnamese/French), Taranto’s, Mosaic
🛫 ATC-Specific Tips
- Training: GPT has a manageable traffic mix – ideal for learning
- Shifts: Mix of early, day, and night shifts – adjust sleep accordingly
- Team: Friendly local staff, small group dynamic
📦 Moving Tips
- Weather prep: Prepare for humidity and possible tropical weather
- Best move-in months: February–May and September–November
- Utilities: Mississippi Power, City of Gulfport Water
❓ FAQs
- Is Gulfport safe?
Yes — especially in southern and western parts of town - Is GPT a good place to train?
Yes — smaller tower, good variety, supportive team - Do I need hurricane insurance?
Recommended – GPT is in a coastal region