Climate & Environment in Water valley, MS
Updated 2026 • Air quality, water quality, CO2 emissions & energy costs
Water valley's average Air Quality Index is 2 — rated Good by EPA standards.
Understanding the Air Quality Index (AQI)
The AQI measures air pollution on a 0–500 scale. Lower is better. Here's how Water valley's air quality compares:
With an average AQI of 2, Water valley falls in the Good range. The area experienced 24 days with poor air quality over the past year, which is moderate for the region. The worst recorded AQI was 4.0, remaining within acceptable limits even at peak pollution.
Environmental Quality in Water valley, MS
Key environmental health indicators that affect daily life, outdoor activities, and long-term wellbeing for residents of Water valley.
CO2 Emissions Breakdown for MS
MS's total CO2 emissions are 63.1 million metric tons (21.4 tons per capita). This is above the US average of ~14 tons per person, often driven by heavy industrial activity or fossil-fuel-based electricity generation.
Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), 2021 data. Values in million metric tons of CO2.
⚡ Energy Costs in MS
Energy prices affect monthly household budgets and are an important factor when evaluating the cost of living in Water valley, MS.
Residents of MS benefit from electricity prices that are 16.4¢ – 13.4¢ = lower than the national average. This means lower monthly utility bills compared to many other states, making Water valley more affordable for energy-intensive households.
What Water valley's Environment Means for You
Air Quality: Water valley, MS enjoys good air quality with an average AQI of 2, well within EPA's "Good" range (0–50). Residents can expect safe conditions for outdoor exercise, gardening, and recreational activities year-round.
Water Quality: Water valley's drinking water scores 6/10. This is an acceptable rating, meaning the water supply generally meets safety standards. Some residents choose to use filtration for taste preferences. Moderate; river flooding can cause quality dips.
Carbon Footprint: MS's per-capita CO2 emissions are 21.4 metric tons per year (total state emissions: 63.1 million metric tons). This is above the national average of ~14 tons, often due to heavy industrial activity or reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation. If environmental impact is important to your relocation decision, this is worth considering.
Energy Costs: Electricity in MS costs 13.42¢ per kWh, which is below the US average of 16.41¢/kWh. This translates to lower monthly utility bills for Water valley residents.
Water valley, MS Environment Overview
How's the environment in Water valley, MS? The area experiences excellent air quality with an average AQI of 2 — well below concerning levels. Water quality is rated 6/10. This page covers air pollution trends, water safety, and environmental factors that affect daily life.
Environmental Pros & Cons of Water valley, MS
Pros
- •Friendly community vibe
- •Family-friendly parks
- •Strong church community
- •Access to outdoor activities
- •Safe neighborhoods
- •Rich southern culture
- •Cultural local events
- •Low cost of living
- •Mild winters
- •Growing small businesses
Cons
- •Less cultural diversity
- •Limited dining choices
- •Limited nightlife options
- •Inequality in schools
- •Job market struggling
- •Political tension
- •Underdeveloped public transport
- •Few educational resources
- •Higher crime rates
- •Healthcare access issues
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Water valley, MS? ▼
The cost of living in Water valley, MS is 0% equal to the national average, with a cost of living index of 100 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
Is Water valley, MS a safe place to live? ▼
Water valley, MS is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Water valley crime statistics →
What are the best neighborhoods in Water valley, MS? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Water valley, MS depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods vary in price depending on proximity to amenities and schools. Explore Water valley on our interactive map →
How are the taxes in Water valley, MS? ▼
Tax rates in Water valley, MS include state and local components. The cost of living index of 100 reflects a moderate cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Water valley tax information →
How does Water valley, MS compare to nearby cities? ▼
Water valley, MS offers comparable costs to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 100, median home prices of $0, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in Water valley, MS? ▼
Weather in Water valley, MS varies by season. Air quality is good, with an average AQI of 1. View detailed Water valley climate & environment data →
Explore More About Water valley, MS
📅 Last Updated: February 2026
Sources: EPA Air Quality System (AQS), U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), NOAA, U.S. Census Bureau