How Far Is Atlanta from Jackson, MS? Your Practical Travel Guide

If you’re in Atlanta, Georgia and wondering how far it is to Jackson, Mississippi, the answer depends on how you travel—but the trip is very doable in a day by car, bus, or plane.

Basic Distance from Atlanta to Jackson, MS

Straight-line (air) distance:

• Roughly 340 miles between Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Jackson–Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN).

Driving distance:

• About 380–390 miles by road, depending on your exact starting point in metro Atlanta and your route.

Typical Travel Times

Times can stretch during rush hour leaving Atlanta, construction, bad weather, or peak holiday periods.

Driving from Atlanta to Jackson, MS

For many people in Atlanta, driving is the most straightforward option—especially for family trips, college visits, or work travel.

Main Driving Route

The most common route is:

1. Start on I-20 West from downtown Atlanta or the Perimeter (I-285).
2. Continue on I-20 West through:
   • Douglasville
   • Birmingham, AL
   • Tuscaloosa, AL
3. Stay on I-20 West all the way into Jackson, Mississippi.

Approximate distance:

• 380–390 miles from central Atlanta to downtown Jackson.

Estimated drive time:

• 5.5 to 6.5 hours with normal stops for gas, food, and restrooms.

What to Expect on the Road

• Traffic leaving Atlanta:
  • The heaviest traffic is usually around Downtown Connector (I-75/85) and I-285 interchanges, especially during weekday rush hours (around 7–9 a.m. and 4–7 p.m.).
• Terrain & road quality:
  • Mostly interstate highway driving, with rolling hills in Georgia and Alabama and generally flat sections closer to Mississippi.
• Fuel and rest stops:
  • You’ll find numerous service stations, fast-food options, and rest areas along I-20, particularly near Birmingham and Tuscaloosa.

Tips for Atlanta Drivers 🚗

• Avoid peak departure times from Atlanta if possible; leaving after rush hour can shave off stress and time.
• Plan breaks roughly every 2–3 hours at rest areas or major exits for food and fuel.
• In winter, check for weather-related advisories in north-central Alabama and central Mississippi.
• If you’re using Hartsfield-Jackson airport rental car centers or picking up a car from nearby agencies, allow extra time navigating airport traffic and signage.

Flying from Atlanta to Jackson, MS

If time matters more than cost, flying from Atlanta to Jackson is usually the fastest way to cover the distance.

Flight Distance & Time

• Air distance: Around 340 miles.
• Flight time (nonstop):
  • Typically about 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes in the air.
• Total trip time door-to-door:
  • Often 3–5 hours, when you include:
    • Travel to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
    • Check-in and baggage drop
    • Security screening
    • Boarding and taxiing
    • Deplaning and baggage claim in Jackson

Key Airports

• Atlanta departure:

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
  • Located just south of downtown Atlanta, accessible via I-85, I-285, and MARTA rail (Airport Station).

• Jackson arrival:

  • Jackson–Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN)
  • Located east of downtown Jackson, off MS-475 near I-20.

Considerations for Atlanta Air Travelers ✈️

• MARTA access:
  • If you’re staying or living in central Atlanta, you can reach ATL via the MARTA Airport Station, which connects directly to the Domestic Terminal.
• Arrival time:
  • For domestic flights, many travelers try to arrive about 1.5–2 hours before departure to allow time for check-in and security.
• Checked bags vs. carry-on:
  • Carry-on only can shorten your time at both ends of the trip.

Taking a Bus from Atlanta to Jackson, MS

If you’re prioritizing budget over speed, buses can connect Atlanta with Jackson, though options and schedules change over time.

Distance and Duration by Bus

• Distance: Still roughly 380–390 miles by road, similar to driving.
• Bus travel time:
  • Typically 7–10+ hours, depending on:
    • Number of stops
    • Transfers in cities such as Birmingham
    • Time of day and route

Departure and Arrival Points in Atlanta

While providers and locations can change, bus departures often use central Atlanta locations such as:

• Areas near Downtown Atlanta, close to major streets like Forsyth St SW or Peachtree St
• Locations accessible by MARTA rail or bus, which makes it easier for Atlanta residents and visitors without cars

Because bus providers periodically update routes and terminals, it’s best to:

• Check the exact departure address when you book.
• Confirm arrival location in Jackson, which may be a central bus stop or transportation center.

Bus Travel Tips for Atlantans 🚌

• Plan your route to the bus station using MARTA or rideshare ahead of time.
• Build in extra buffer time in case of Atlanta traffic delays.
• Bring snacks, water, and entertainment, as the trip can be longer than driving yourself.

Comparing Your Options from Atlanta to Jackson, MS

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

1. Driving from Atlanta to Jackson

• Distance: ~380–390 miles by road
• Best for:
  • Flexibility with stops and schedule
  • Families or groups
  • Carrying more luggage or gear
• Things to note:
  • Requires a driver comfortable with 5.5–6.5 hours on I-20
  • Must account for fuel, food, and possibly parking in Jackson

2. Flying from Atlanta (ATL)

• Distance: ~340 air miles
• Best for:
  • Short trips where time is a priority
  • Business travelers
  • Those already near Hartsfield-Jackson or on the MARTA line
• Things to note:
  • Higher total cost than driving or bus in many cases
  • Airport security and check-in time add to total travel time

3. Bus from Atlanta

• Distance: Same road mileage as driving
• Best for:
  • Budget-conscious travelers
  • People without access to a car
• Things to note:
  • Typically longer travel time than driving yourself
  • Less control over breaks and schedule

How to Decide What’s Best for You in Atlanta

To choose the best way to get from Atlanta to Jackson, MS, ask:

• How fast do I need to be there?
  • If speed matters most, flying usually wins despite airport time.
• What’s my budget?
  • Driving or bus is often more affordable, especially for multiple people.
• Where am I starting in Atlanta?
  • Near downtown or MARTA? Flying or bus may be more convenient.
  • In the suburbs (e.g., Marietta, Stone Mountain, Fayetteville)? Driving door-to-door may be smoother.
• Am I comfortable driving long distances on I-20?
  • If yes, the drive is direct and straightforward from Atlanta.

In practical terms, Atlanta is roughly 380–390 road miles and about 5.5–6.5 driving hours from Jackson, Mississippi, or about 1 hour of flight time between airports. Once you factor in your starting point in Atlanta, your budget, and your schedule, you can choose the option—car, plane, or bus—that fits your trip best.