The Dismal State of Mississippi Compared to Overseas Countries

​Mississippi’s GDP per capita ranks lowest among U.S. states, making it an interesting benchmark for comparison against the economies of foreign nations. In 2023, the state’s real GDP per capita was approximately $39,103. This figure provides valuable insight into Mississippi’s economic standing and highlights the disparities in wealth and productivity between U.S. states and nations worldwide.

Globally, GDP per capita serves as a common metric for comparing economic output and average income levels across regions. Mississippi, with its $39,103 GDP per capita, stands ahead of many nations, particularly those in developing regions. For example, the 2024 International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates show China with a GDP per capita of $13,374 and India at $2,601. These figures underscore the significant disparity in economic development and productivity between Mississippi and some of the world’s largest emerging markets. Countries such as Nigeria ($2,523) and Pakistan ($1,586) also rank far below Mississippi in this regard.

Conversely, when Mississippi’s GDP per capita is compared to wealthier nations, the state falls short. Developed countries like Switzerland ($94,696), Luxembourg ($127,348), and Ireland ($128,098) boast far higher GDP per capita figures, reflecting their advanced economies and high standards of living. In comparison to European nations like Germany ($54,291) and the United Kingdom ($51,075), Mississippi’s GDP per capita still lags significantly.

To put Mississippi’s ranking into perspective, it would be positioned as the 58th highest GDP per capita globally if it were an independent nation. This ranking places Mississippi just above countries like Slovakia ($38,978) and Costa Rica ($35,365) but below nations like Portugal ($39,812) and the Czech Republic ($43,424). Such a comparison highlights Mississippi’s poor economic performance in a global context, particularly when juxtaposed against the average U.S. GDP per capita of approximately $75,000.

The economic disparities between Mississippi and other U.S. states also warrant attention. For instance, states like Massachusetts and New York have GDP per capita figures exceeding $90,000, more than double that of Mississippi. This stark contrast underscores the uneven distribution of economic productivity and opportunity within the United States.

It is also crucial to consider additional factors beyond GDP per capita when evaluating economic well-being. While Mississippi’s GDP per capita is higher than many developing nations, the state faces challenges such as a high poverty rate, limited access to healthcare, and lower educational attainment. These issues can impact the quality of life for residents and differentiate Mississippi from nations with similar GDP per capita levels but better social and economic infrastructure.
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In conclusion, Mississippi’s GDP per capita of $39,103 places it in an intriguing position on the global economic spectrum. While it ranks higher than many developing nations, it falls significantly behind wealthier countries and even the U.S. average. This comparison underscores the complexities of economic development and the disparities within and between nations. Such insights can inform policymakers and stakeholders aiming to address economic inequities and improve living standards in Mississippi and similar regions.