Ridgeland MS

Ridgeland, Mississippi – Nestled in the heart of the Magnolia State, Ridgeland blends small-town warmth with a vibrant touch of modern living. Known for its welcoming charm, scenic beauty, and growing arts scene, this city invites both locals and visitors to enjoy a lifestyle that’s as relaxing as a stroll around the Reservoir. Whether you're into outdoor adventures, boutique shopping, or Southern cuisine, Ridgeland offers something special for everyone who stops by or decides to stay awhile.

• Population: ~24,000
• Weather: Mild winters and warm, humid summers (35-90°F); best enjoyed in spring and fall.
• Places To Visit: Ridgeland Bike Trail, Ross Barnett Reservoir, Renaissance at Colony Park, Mississippi Craft Center, Natchez Trace Parkway.
• Top Activities: Kayaking on the Reservoir, cycling scenic trails, browsing local art markets, attending seasonal festivals, savoring Southern comfort food.
• Famous Food: Delta-style tamales, Southern fried catfish, Mississippi mud pie, and signature dishes from local favorites like Local 463 and Ely’s Restaurant.

Ridgeland, MS, part of the thriving Jackson metropolitan area, offers a strong local economy with growing industries in healthcare, finance, technology, and retail. Its business-friendly environment and quality of life attract professionals in a variety of fields. Here are some of the top in-demand jobs in Ridgeland today.

Top 5 Jobs in Ridgeland, MS

Ridgeland, MS may be smaller than the big cities, but it packs a surprising number of fun and relaxing spots for students to unwind, meet friends, or get a quick break from the books. Whether you're into outdoor adventures, shopping, coffee dates, or just need a peaceful place to chill, this Mississippi gem has you covered.

The Rez (Ross Barnett Reservoir) – If you're into nature, this is hard to beat. Go kayaking, rent a paddleboard, or just sit by the water with your headphones and let your brain reset. It’s also a great place for jogging or sunset walks with friends.

Northpark Mall – This is your go-to spot for shopping therapy, catching the latest blockbuster, or grabbing a bite. It’s local, indoors (hello air conditioning), and always welcoming when you just need a low-key escape.

Freedom Ridge Park – Whether you’re into tossing a frisbee, playing soccer, or just lying on the grass with a good playlist, this park is a laid-back oasis. Tons of green space and perfect for group hangouts or solo mental health afternoons.

Soulshine Pizza Factory – Music, chill vibes, and delicious pizza—it’s a winner. Soulshine regularly has live music, and the laid-back vibe makes it a favorite among students who want to kick back and enjoy a casual night out.

Cups An Espresso Café – Cozy, trendy, and filled with the scent of fresh coffee. Whether you're grinding through homework or chatting for hours, this spot feels like a second home. Their seasonal drinks are a must-try too.

The Township at Colony Park – A beautiful area to explore on foot, with boutique shopping, casual and upscale dining, and great photo ops. It’s a relaxing spot to walk around, get inspired, and enjoy some fresh air between classes or study sessions.

Shucker’s Oyster Bar – For students who are 21+, this spot brings live music, high-energy nights, and a local crowd that knows how to have a good time. It’s a go-to for weekend plans and a fun way to meet people outside of campus.

Ridgeland Multi-Use Trail – Need to clear your head? This scenic trail stretches for miles and is perfect for walking, biking, or running. It winds through leafy neighborhoods and green spaces, giving you some much-needed breathing room.

Ridgeland might fly under the radar, but it has a great mix of places to recharge, connect, and enjoy the student life. Sometimes it’s the smaller cities that hide the best gems—you just have to know where to look.

Ridgeland, Mississippi, offers a vibrant higher education scene, blending public and private institutions that cater to a variety of interests and career paths. Whether you're seeking a hands-on technical education or a comprehensive university experience, Ridgeland’s colleges and universities are ready to help you achieve your goals.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Ridgeland, MS

Holmes Community College – Ridgeland Campus – This respected community college provides affordable degrees and certificates in healthcare, business, and technical fields. Holmes is highly regarded for its supportive faculty and convenient location for Ridgeland students.

Mississippi College School of Law (satellite programming) – Though the main campus is in Clinton, MS, some programs and continuing education events are occasionally hosted in the Ridgeland area for greater accessibility to professionals.

Hinds Community College (partnership programs) – Hinds, a leading community college, partners with other educational institutions in the Ridgeland area to offer select courses and workforce training.

University of Mississippi Medical Center (outreach and clinical programs) – UMMC provides some outreach and continuing education services in Ridgeland, helping students and healthcare professionals access advancement opportunities locally.

Jackson State University – Madison/Ridgeland Graduate Center – JSU offers specialized graduate-level classes and programs accessible to Ridgeland’s aspiring professionals.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Ridgeland, MS

Belhaven University – North Mississippi/Ridgeland Campus – Known for its flexible adult education programs, Belhaven offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in business, education, and health administration right in Ridgeland.

Millsaps College (services and partnerships in Ridgeland) – While its main campus is in nearby Jackson, Millsaps collaborates on select programs and community events in Ridgeland, broadening options for local students.

Wesley Biblical Seminary (Ridgeland campus) – This accredited private seminary in Ridgeland focuses on graduate theological degrees and pastoral training, renowned for its supportive environment and academic rigor.

Virginia College (previously in Ridgeland) – Although Virginia College has closed, it once played a major role in workforce and business education for Ridgeland’s community, and its impact is still felt.

Antonelli College (formerly in Ridgeland) – Previously a private career college in Ridgeland, Antonelli provided training in business, technology, and the health sciences before its closure, leaving a legacy of strong job placement in the area.

Ridgeland’s college and university options are designed with your success in mind. From flexible class formats to strong career services, students of all ages and backgrounds can find their place to learn and grow right here in the heart of Mississippi.

Ridgeland, MS, is home to several outstanding high schools that offer students strong academics, enriching extracurriculars, and college preparation. Whether families are looking for public or private options, Ridgeland provides access to high-quality education that supports student success in and out of the classroom.

Top Public High Schools in Ridgeland, MS

• Ridgeland High School – As part of the Madison County School District, this school is known for a well-rounded curriculum, strong soccer and robotics programs, and advanced placement (AP) classes that prepare students for college challenges.
• Madison Central High School – Although technically located in nearby Madison, this high-performing school services families from Ridgeland and boasts high graduation rates, competitive athletics, and National Merit Scholars.
• Velma Jackson High School – Located in Camden but serving parts of the Ridgeland area, Velma Jackson offers a smaller student body with close-knit community values and several academic enrichment initiatives.
• Northwest Rankin High School – Situated in neighboring Flowood, this school is a popular choice for Ridgeland families due to its academic rigor, award-winning band, and dedicated faculty.
• Germantown High School – Found in nearby Gluckstadt, Germantown High is well-known for its academic programs, career preparatory courses, and active student organizations that enhance leadership and collaboration.

Top Private High Schools in Ridgeland, MS

• St. Andrew’s Episcopal School – One of the top private schools in the region, St. Andrew’s has campuses in both Ridgeland and Jackson. Its Ridgeland campus serves high school grades and offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum, a strong honor code, and global learning experiences.
• Jackson Academy – Located close to Ridgeland and easily accessible to many residents, Jackson Academy provides a technology-integrated curriculum, a wide range of athletics, and a nurturing Christian environment.
• Madsion-Ridgeland Academy (MRA) – A private Christian institution deeply rooted in academic success and character development. From athletics to arts, MRA provides students with well-rounded opportunities and strong college placement rates.
• Hartfield Academy – Though in Flowood, Hartfield draws families from Ridgeland with its Christ-centered education, vibrant student community, and commitment to academic excellence across all grade levels.
• Hillcrest Christian School – Located in nearby Jackson, this school serves students from the Ridgeland area and offers a faith-based education with a focus on leadership, service, and academic growth in a supportive environment.

Whether you're seeking public options with advanced academic programs or private schools that blend scholastic excellence with values-based education, Ridgeland and its neighboring communities provide enriching opportunities for high school students. With a supportive learning culture and a commitment to student success, these schools prepare students not just for tests, but for life.

Ridgeland, Mississippi is a fast-growing city known for its Southern charm, strong sense of community, and active lifestyle. While it doesn't host any professional sports teams of its own, Ridgeland's passionate sports fans are never far from exciting action. Residents often support nearby regional teams from larger Mississippi cities and surrounding states. From college powerhouses to minor league teams, the area offers plenty of opportunities for sports enthusiasts to cheer, tailgate, and celebrate.

Let’s explore the professional and semi-professional sports landscape that Ridgeland locals proudly support just a short drive away.

Baseball – Mississippi Braves (Minor League Baseball – AA Affiliate)

• Mississippi Braves – Located in nearby Pearl, MS, just 15 minutes from Ridgeland, the Mississippi Braves are the Double-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. Playing at Trustmark Park, the M-Braves have developed stars who’ve gone on to shine in the Major Leagues. The games offer a family-friendly atmosphere with fireworks, theme nights, and affordable fun.

College Sports – Major Local Passion

• University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) – Just under two hours from Ridgeland, Ole Miss in Oxford is a powerhouse in SEC football and baseball. Saturdays in the fall are all about tailgating in The Grove and cheering on the Rebels.
• Mississippi State University – Located in Starkville, less than two hours’ drive north, MSU has a passionate fan base and a proud tradition. Their baseball team won the College World Series in 2021, and the football team competes fiercely in the SEC.
• Jackson State University – A short commute from Ridgeland, Jackson State is known for electrifying HBCU football and a world-famous marching band—The Sonic Boom of the South. The football program gained national attention during Deion Sanders’ coaching tenure.

Football – New Orleans Saints (NFL – Closest Pro Team)

• New Orleans Saints – While Ridgeland doesn’t have its own NFL team, many residents are die-hard fans of the New Orleans Saints, located just under three hours away. With a Super Bowl win in 2010, the Saints have a loyal following across Mississippi. Fans often travel to the Superdome for games or host lively watch parties at home.

Basketball – Memphis Grizzlies (NBA – Closest NBA Team)

• Memphis Grizzlies – The NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies are about three hours north of Ridgeland. With emerging stars like Ja Morant, the Grizzlies have become one of the most exciting young teams in the league. Many Mississippi basketball fans claim them as their hometown team.

Soccer – Mississippi Brilla FC (USL League Two)

• Mississippi Brilla FC – Based right in Clinton, MS, just a short drive from Ridgeland, Brilla plays in USL League Two, a developmental league for elite soccer talent. The club has a passionate followership and hosts matches at Clinton High School Stadium during the summer months.

Hockey and Other Sports

• While Mississippi doesn’t have an NHL team, hockey fans connect with franchises like the Nashville Predators or the Dallas Stars. During the winter months, Ridgeland locals can stream games or plan road trips to nearby cities.
• Additionally, semi-professional and recreational sports are big in Ridgeland—especially cycling, tennis, and running. The city frequently hosts triathlons, marathons, and regional sporting events, showcasing its commitment to an active and competitive community vibe.

While Ridgeland may not have its own major league franchise, its central location gives sports lovers access to thrilling teams and events across the region. Whether it’s watching future MLB stars with the Mississippi Braves or road-tripping to Memphis or New Orleans, there’s never a shortage of action for Ridgeland sports fans!

Ridgeland, MS might seem like a quiet southern city, but it’s full of charm, culture, and a few surprising facts! Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s a lot to love and learn about this Mississippi gem. Here are 10 fun facts about Ridgeland:

1. Part of the Natchez Trace Parkway – Ridgeland lies along the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile historic route once used by Native Americans, early explorers, and traders.
2. Biking Paradise – Ridgeland is a Bicycle Friendly Community, and its multi-use trails stretch over 14 miles, making it a haven for cyclists and joggers.
3. Home to Art in the Park – Each year, Ridgeland hosts Art Wine & Wheels Weekend, a unique festival that combines fine art, wine tasting, and cycling events all in one weekend of fun.
4. A Shopping Hot Spot – Visitors love Renaissance at Colony Park, an open-air lifestyle center styled like an Italian village, complete with boutiques, restaurants, and beautiful fountains.
5. Polished by the Pearl – Ridgeland sits along the beautiful Ross Barnett Reservoir, a popular spot for boating, fishing, and sunset watching over the Pearl River.
6. Fitness-Focused Community – With 150+ annual races and wellness events, Ridgeland puts fitness first. It’s even home to the annual Natchez Trace Century Ride, which attracts cyclists from across the country.
7. Foodie Approved – Ridgeland has a growing culinary scene, from down-home Southern cooking to modern, chef-driven menus. You’ll find incredible bites at every turn.
8. Unexpected Art Scene – Did you know Ridgeland has its own Craft Center? The Mississippi Craft Center showcases handmade works by local artisans and offers workshops for all ages.
9. The City With a Trail Mix – Ridgeland offers a mix of paved trails, nature paths, and water trails, perfect for hikers, bikers, and kayakers alike. Outdoor lovers feel right at home here.
10. Small City, Big Events – From outdoor concerts to farmers markets and cultural festivals, Ridgeland has something going on nearly every weekend. It may be small, but it’s always buzzing with energy!