Mississippiās economy has improved in employment and compensation since the mid-20th century, but it still lags regionally and nationally. The largest sectors are manufacturing and services, including government, retail and wholesale trade, real estate, and health and social services; the service sector has grown rapidly since the late 20th century.
Principal manufactures include upholstered furniture, automotive parts, lumber and wood-related products, and processed foods like seafood. Mississippi is also a top producer of lumber and wood products. Major agricultural products include poultry, soybeans, corn, cattle, and cotton, and the state is a leading producer of broiler chickens. Petroleum and natural gas account for the bulk of minerals produced.