Shelby, MS
Population 1,709 · Mississippi
About Shelby, MS
Shelby is a small community in Mississippi with a population of 1,709 residents. The median household income is $27,728 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Shelby is 42.1 years.
Housing in Shelby has a median home value of $82,400 and median monthly rent of $613. Of the 811 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 463 owner-occupied and 238 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Shelby is 27.4% and the poverty rate is 58.5%. 16.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 36 minutes.
Cost of Living in Shelby, MS
Compared to national averages, Shelby has a median household income of $27,728 (63% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $82,400, which is 66% below the national median. Monthly rent at $613 is 47% below the US average of $1,163. Within Mississippi, Shelby's income is 44% below the state average of $49,929, and home values are 34% below the state median of $125,705.
Why Live in Shelby, MS?
Shelby offers affordable housing with a median home value of $82,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $613/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($27,728) that falls below the national average. However, Shelby’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Shelby has a population of 1,709 with a median age of 42.1 years. Compare Shelby with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Mississippi.
Similar Cities Near Shelby
Cities in Mississippi with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shannon | 1,719 | $42,208 | $120,200 | Compare |
| Purvis | 1,691 | $34,688 | $122,500 | Compare |
| Itta Bena | 1,735 | $32,898 | $100,200 | Compare |
| Mantachie | 1,745 | $81,818 | $131,900 | Compare |
| Belzoni | 1,664 | $45,000 | $103,400 | Compare |
| Pelahatchie | 1,648 | $52,957 | $183,300 | Compare |
| Calhoun City | 1,804 | $45,439 | $85,600 | Compare |
| Terry | 1,809 | $48,354 | $155,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Mississippi
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Shelby
What is the population of Shelby, MS?
The population of Shelby, MS is 1,709 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Shelby?
The median household income in Shelby, MS is $27,728 per year.
What is the median home value in Shelby?
The median home value in Shelby, MS is $82,400.
What is the average rent in Shelby?
The median monthly rent in Shelby, MS is $613.
What is the unemployment rate in Shelby?
The unemployment rate in Shelby, MS is 27.4%.