The 10 Best Places to Retire in Mississippi

Retiring in Mississippi is perfect for anyone looking for a warm, affordable place to call home. Mississippi’s friendly atmosphere of beautiful, fragrant magnolias and the Delta Blues make living here easy and exciting.

NewHomeSource has named the top 10 cities for retirees in Mississippi. If you are ready to retire in the Magnolia State, we make it easy to find the perfect new retirement community in a city where you can engage in a lifestyle you love.

1. Clarksdale

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 15.0%

Median Home Value: $65,400

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 25

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 204

Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 3

“Home of the Blues” Clarksdale, is a major hub of live entertainment where performers will serenade you with their unique sounds year-round; the city is ground zero if you want to learn about the history of the blues and experience it firsthand. If you are looking for a relaxing, easy-going place where music fills the atmosphere, Clarksville is an ideal retirement spot.  

Clarksdale, Mississippi, sits in the heart of the Delta, a region known as much for its rich soil as for the soul-stirring music that grew out of it. Perched along the Sunflower River, Clarksdale is a small town with a big legacy, just 75 miles southwest of Memphis, Tennessee, and about 150 miles northwest of the state capital, Jackson.

For those who choose to retire here, the attractions are as deep as the Delta’s roots. The Delta Blues Museum is a must-see, offering a glimpse into the history of the music that put Clarksdale on the map. The annual Juke Joint Festival is another highlight, a vibrant celebration that blends the old with the new, attracting visitors of all ages. Outdoor enthusiasts will find refuge in the nearby Great River Road State Park, where they can fish, hike, or simply take in the views of the Mississippi River.

Clarksdale offers a range of activities designed to keep seniors engaged and active. The town’s senior center is a hub of social activity. Healthcare is also a priority, with the North Sunflower Medical Center in nearby Ruleville providing top-notch care. For those who enjoy sports, Clarksdale has golf courses, one public and one private that cater to all skill levels.

For those looking to retire somewhere that’s as rich in culture as it is in character, Clarksdale offers an experience that’s hard to match. It’s not just a place to live; it’s a place to be part of a story that’s still being written.

2. Yazoo City

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 11.5%

Median Home Value: $70,900

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 37

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 321

Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 2

If you are envisioning retiring to a place where outdoor adventure reigns, look no further than Yazoo City. Yazoo City sits in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, a place where the land rolls flat, the river meanders, and the air hangs heavy with the weight of history and tradition. Tucked into the western part of the state, it’s a town that’s about 50 miles north of Jackson, the state capital, and just a stone’s throw from the banks of the Yazoo River.

The Wolf Lake, Panther Swamp, and the great Delta National Forest are some of the best places to camp, fish, or hunt. This “Getaway to the Delta” is a nice, downhome place to drop anchor and enjoy retirement. Yazoo City wears its nickname with pride, a nod to its role as the entry point to one of the most culturally rich regions in the country.

For retirees, Yazoo City offers a slower pace of life that’s hard to find elsewhere. The Oakes African American Cultural Center provides a deep dive into the African American experience in the Delta. The Yazoo County Convention and Visitors Bureau offers a glimpse into the town’s past and present, a perfect starting point for newcomers.

Get outside and enjoy the beauty of this area. Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, just a short drive away, offers opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and hiking in a landscape that feels untouched by time. For those who prefer a more manicured experience, Yazoo City’s public parks, like Ricks Memorial Library Park, offer a peaceful retreat in the heart of town.

Stay connected with your community. The town’s annual events, such as the Jerry Clower Festival, celebrate the humor and spirit of the region. Dining and shopping might not be what you’d find in a big city, but what’s here is authentic and satisfying. Local eateries serve up Southern comfort food with a side of hospitality, and small shops offer everything from antiques to locally made crafts.

For older residents, Yazoo City has services that promote well-being. Healthcare is available locally, with King’s Daughters Hospital serving the community’s needs as well as Jackson’s more extensive medical facilities.

Golfers will find a challenge at the Yazoo Country Club, where the course is as much about enjoying the surroundings as it is about the game. Local parks have play areas and driving ranges.

Plant your self in Yazoo City for retirement. Be rooted in something that is authentic and inviting. Live your golden years in a welcoming community sure to be relaxing and fulfilling.

3. Indianola

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.1%

Median Home Value: $76,400

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 124

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 514

Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 4

Indianola, Mississippi, has a rich history and residents know how to embrace it. Found deep in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Indianola is roughly 135 miles south of Memphis, Tennessee, and about 100 miles north of Jackson, Mississippi. This small town, though modest in size, is big on character and rich in cultural significance.

Indianola has earned its place on the map as the birthplace and resting place of the legendary blues musician, B.B. King. The town takes immense pride in this heritage with the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center standing as a beacon for blues enthusiasts from all over.

For retirees, Indianola offers a unique blend of small-town tranquility. The town’s slower pace and close-knit community make it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether it’s a quiet afternoon of fishing, a community bingo night, or a local history talk, Indianola provides plenty of opportunities to stay engaged and active. Active adults will find plenty to do at the Indianola Activity Center.

Parks in Indianola, like the Fletcher Park and the nearby Leroy Percy State Park, offer opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and bird-watching, while the expansive Delta landscape provides a serene backdrop for outdoor activities. Leroy Percy State Park, in particular, is a hidden gem with its cypress swamps and tranquil lakes, perfect for a day out in nature.

Healthcare in Indianola is supported by local clinics, with more comprehensive services available in nearby Greenville, which is about 30 miles away. The proximity to larger cities ensures that specialized care is within reach, without sacrificing the peace and quiet of small-town life.

Selecting Indianola for retirement is about choosing a place where life is lived at a slower, more thoughtful pace. It’s about the warmth of a community in the Mississippi Delta. Live life on your terms in Indianola.

4. Greenville

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 15.5%

Median Home Value: $78,300

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 67

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,534

Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 4

Greenville, Mississippi, is perched on the western edge of the state, right along the Mississippi River. Life moves at a slower pace here with Memphis, Tennessee and Jackson both less than three hours away. Greenville enjoys its laid-back, small-town atmosphere with a wide selection of activities.

Ferguson Lake provides plenty of fishing, camping, and boating opportunities for the outdoor types. Leroy Percy State Park offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas that are perfect for an afternoon out. Golf enthusiasts can head to the Greenville Country Club for a round of golf on a well-maintained course.

If you are in the mood for culture, the Mississippi Delta is full of museums and art galleries that allow you to become immersed in the area’s history. Museums like the Greenville History Museum and the Hebrew Union Temple Museum offer insights into the area’s rich past. Greenville also sponsors annual music festivals and concerts in the local parks. Residents pride themselves in their specialty – southern barbeque restaurants. 

Greenville, known as the “Heart and Soul of the Delta,” is unique because it sits at the cultural crossroads of music, history, and Southern traditions. The Delta blues was born here, and you can feel its pulse in the air. Indianola, a short drive away, is known for being the birthplace of blues legend B.B. King, and the town keeps his legacy alive with the B.B. King Museum.

For retirees, Greenville offers a sense of community that’s hard to find in larger cities. The Delta region’s natural beauty and historical significance are the kinds of things that grow on you. You might find yourself at a local blues festival, listening to the kind of music that gets into your bones. Dining in Greenville leans into Southern comfort food like fried catfish, barbecue, and shrimp.

From quilting groups to gardening clubs, you will find something that appeals to your interests. And if your grandkids come to visit, Greenville has family-friendly attractions like the Greenville Air Force Base Museum and the Delta Children’s Museum that offer engaging, educational fun.

Healthcare is solid for a town its size. The Delta Regional Medical Center is nearby, and larger medical facilities in Jackson and Memphis are accessible if needed. Retirees can enjoy peace of mind for healthcare and senior services.

Feel a connection with Greenville. It’s authentic and rooted in its land and people. Greenville is a place where you can feel at home for this next chapter of life.

5. Meridian

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.2%

Median Home Value: $83,300

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 181

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,475

Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 5

Meridian, Mississippi sits like a crossroads in the heart of the state, at the junction of history, railroads, and Southern charm. Tucked away in eastern Mississippi, it’s a few miles from the Alabama state line, with Jackson to the west and Birmingham, Alabama, to the northeast. Meridian, known as “The Queen City,” has always been a place of significance—its nickname a nod to its importance as a railroad hub and the crown jewel of transportation in the South.

Meridian has many great attributes for retirees and is ripe with museums; you can explore the Mississippi’s Arts + Entertainment Experience, the MAX, with a Hall of Fame of musicians and artists with ties to Meridian. The Riley Center, with its grand performances and historic theater, serves as the cultural heart, attracting both locals and visitors with live music, shows, and events.

Other great explorations await you. The Mississippi Industrial Heritage Museum gives a glimpse into the city’s once-booming manufacturing era. The Jimmie Rodgers Museum is dedicated to the Father of Country Music. Retirees with a taste for history or music would find themselves drawn to these places.

The parks here, such as Bonita Lakes Park, are sprawling spaces that seem designed to lure you outdoors. Walking trails weave around the lakes, offering activities like fishing, hiking, or simply sitting by the water and watching the day go by. The nearby Clarkco State Park provides more adventure with its boating, camping, and peaceful forest escapes.

Dining and shopping are cozy affairs, with local eateries offering everything from down-home cooking to modern Southern fusion, while small boutiques and antique shops provide an afternoon of leisurely browsing.

For older residents, the community seems to have thought of everything. The Meridian Senior Center offers a full calendar of events, from fitness classes to arts and crafts, making it easy to stay social and active. Grandkids visiting? No problem. Take them to Highland Park, where the Dentzel Carousel—a charming, antique ride built in 1896—still operates, captivating young and old alike with its wooden horses and nostalgic melodies.

Healthcare in Meridian is strong, with Anderson Regional Health System and Rush Health Systems nearby, providing access to both general and specialized care. And for those who love to stay active, the city offers golf courses like Northwood Country Club.

Meridian has set a fun, relaxed framework for retirement. Balance quiet moments and lively community activities while embracing the Southern hospitality. Let Meridian be your home base for all your Mississippi adventures.

6. Laurel

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.6%

Median Home Value: $85,800

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 125

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 800

Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 2

Laurel, Mississippi is found in the southeastern corner of the state. It is roughly 100 miles north of Gulfport and Biloxi, and about 90 miles south of the state’s capital, Jackson. This puts it in a sweet spot, close enough to the coast and the capital for day trips, but far enough to keep its own identity intact. Known as the “City Beautiful,” Laurel earned its nickname from its tree-lined streets and historic homes, a reputation bolstered by the lumber industry that once defined its economy.

What makes Laurel unique is its ability to retain its Southern charm while evolving into something more. The town is perhaps best known today as the backdrop for the HGTV show Home Town, which has breathed new life into the city’s revitalization efforts. A retiree might find this rebirth particularly appealing—quiet living in a town that’s growing, not shrinking.

This city has museums and art exhibits, antiques and peddler’s shows, as well as a local community theater. There is no denying that Laurel loves its artists. The Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, the oldest art museum in Mississippi, holds a surprisingly impressive collection. It’s a tranquil space where you could spend a quiet afternoon soaking up some culture.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Mason Park is a great place for a leisurely walk, and nearby parks like Daphne Park offer a space to picnic, play, or simply relax under the shade of a massive oak. For those looking to stay active, there are plenty of options for golf, tennis, and even pickleball. The Laurel Country Club is the go-to spot for golf, while tennis courts can be found in several local parks.

The nearby Landrum’s Homestead & Village offers a glimpse into Mississippi’s pioneer past and is an attraction that would appeal to both older residents and their visiting grandchildren. Speaking of family, the grandchildren will love the parks, particularly the splash pad at Daphne Park.

Older residents will find a wealth of activities aimed at their interests. The Laurel-Jones County Senior Center hosts events ranging from bingo nights to fitness classes designed with seniors in mind. As for healthcare, Laurel is well-equipped. South Central Regional Medical Center provides comprehensive services and is known for its quality of care.

With its growing reputation, strong community, and proximity to bigger cities, Laurel feels rooted yet progressive. It is a compelling option for those looking to retire in a city that’s on the rise. Give Laurel a look for your retirement needs.

7. Greenwood

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 13.0%

Median Home Value: $87,900

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 79

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 697

Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 1

Greenwood is knowns for its rural feeling within a suburban setting. The town’s authentic Southern hospitality attracts many types of people, artists, musicians, filmmakers, craftsmen, foodies, nature lovers, collectors, history buffs, and adventurers. You will find shops and markets that highlight local artists, as well as museums that allow you to explore the city’s rich history.  

Greenwood, Mississippi, sits right in the heart of the Mississippi Delta. It’s a small town positioned at the confluence of the Tallahatchie and Yalobusha rivers. The location about 100 miles north of Jackson, the state capital, and 130 miles south of Memphis, Tennessee, allows you access to big city amenities.

The “Cotton Capital of the World” has long been associated with agriculture, but it’s also a cultural landmark. The city is deeply tied to the blues—a genre born out of the Delta. American blues legends like Robert Johnson have roots in the area.

Retirees might find Greenwood appealing for its laid-back pace and rich history. Enjoy coming together at the annual Greenwood Blues Fest. The downtown area, lined with historic buildings, offers a sense of nostalgia, but it’s also practical, with shops, dining options, and even a few galleries showcasing local artists.

Museums like the Museum of the Mississippi Delta offer a deep dive into the region’s history covering everything from Native American artifacts to the Civil War. For outdoor enthusiasts, Whittington Park will have you strolling along the river. Nearby, the Tallahatchie National Wildlife Refuge offers birdwatching and hiking opportunities.

One unique opportunity is the Viking Cooking School. This institution draws people from all over the country who want to learn culinary skills in a hands-on environment. It’s a unique attraction and something that could appeal to retirees looking for a new hobby. The local dining scene is rooted in Southern tradition—expect comfort food with a gourmet twist.

For older residents, there are regular events at the Greenwood Senior Center, which offers activities and services designed to support retirees. Grandchildren visiting? No problem. Kids will love the Greenwood Splash Pad or the simple joy of fishing at one of the local lakes or rivers.

Healthcare is covered with Greenwood Leflore Hospital serving as the primary medical facility. For more specialized care, the proximity to Jackson or Memphis ensures that top-notch medical treatment is never out of reach. Golf enthusiasts can hit the links at the Greenwood Country Club.

Greenwood offers a steady, relaxed lifestyle that’s hard to beat. Retirees choose Greenwood because it feels like home—familiar, grounded, and authentic in a way that other places just aren’t.

8. McComb

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 13.6%

Median Home Value: $88,800

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 112

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 717

Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 7

McComb, Mississippi sits snugly in the southwest corner of the state, a couple hours north of New Orleans and about an hour south of Jackson. Enjoy Southern hospitality and small-town life positioned along the I-55 corridor. McComb provides a convenient link between larger cities, yet it remains a quiet oasis, untouched by the chaos.

McComb is the perfect place for retirees looking for a relaxing home. Known as the “Hub City of the South,” McComb earned its nickname as a railroad town in the late 19th century. That legacy is still alive today, with the historic McComb Railroad Museum preserving that chapter of its story.

There’s a charm in what McComb offers to those looking for a peaceful, slower-paced life. Retirees find the area inviting, with affordable housing, a low cost of living, and a community that feels like it’s looking out for you. The downtown area has a sprinkling of local shops.

The city’s green spaces, like Percy Quin State Park, provide ample opportunities for walking, fishing, or simply taking in the natural beauty that the deep South provides. The park’s sprawling golf course and scenic lake are favorites for both locals and those visiting from afar.

For those with a love for history, the city’s museums and historical sites tell the tale of McComb’s resilience and its role in the Civil Rights Movement. A trip through the African American Heritage Driving Tour uncovers a hidden past, while the nearby Bogue Chitto Water Park offers a more leisurely pace, with tubing and swimming for visitors of all ages.

The St. Andrew’s Activity Center focuses on activities and events catered to older residents, like dances, informative speakers, and weekly lunches. Healthcare in McComb is bolstered by Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center, a well-regarded facility that serves as the area’s primary hospital. Its proximity is reassuring for those in their later years, knowing that quality care is just a short drive away.

McComb thrives in its simplicity. Locally-owned restaurants dish out Southern staples—fried catfish, gumbo, and hushpuppies. Shopping is centered around local boutiques and regional chains, offering an authentic experience that hasn’t been overtaken by the megastores of larger cities.

McComb is like a well-kept secret waiting to be shared. Take stock of where you’ve been and where you’re going and you will find McComb fits in nicely. The community wraps you in its arms allowing you to enjoy your later years without the distractions of larger, more crowded locales.

9. West Point

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.5%

Median Home Value: $89,600

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 39

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 292

Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 4

West Point, Mississippi is found in the northeastern corner of the state along the banks of the Tombigbee River. Starkville and Columbus are just a short drive away, and if you’re looking for bigger city thrills, Birmingham, Alabama, is about two hours to the east. But West Point doesn’t need big city lights—it has its own character, shaped by decades of Southern tradition, and a nickname that fits like an old glove: “The Heart of the Golden Triangle.”

Retirees will love the relaxed vibe in West Point. Here you will find museums and cinemas to keep you busy if you are searching for something to do indoors. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy campgrounds, walking trails, and dog parks. It is also the home of the Dudy Noble Field, where families and friends gather to watch college baseball. 

What makes West Point unique is the fact that it’s home to one of Mississippi’s most famous golf courses, Old Waverly. That’s what most people know about the town—its lush greens and the fact that it’s a golfer’s paradise. The cost of living is affordable, and it’s a tight-knit community where people still know their neighbors. Museums like the Howlin’ Wolf Blues Museum are small but packed with soul, showcasing the town’s rich musical history tied to blues legend Chester Arthur Burnett, aka Howlin’ Wolf, who was born nearby.

For those who love the outdoors, West Point has access to parks like the Sam Wilhite Park and the larger, scenic landscapes of the Tombigbee National Forest. Boating, fishing, and birdwatching are all favorite pastimes around here, especially at the nearby Noxubee Wildlife Refuge. Retirees will appreciate the quiet spaces and trails, while grandkids will love the hands-on opportunities to explore nature, from hiking to spotting wildlife.

There are community events like the Prairie Arts Festival, where local craftsmen and artists show off their work, and dining that revolves around Southern staples. Shopping leans practical, with a mix of small businesses and local markets providing everything you need without the fuss of big-box stores.

Activities for retirees center around staying active and social. There are pickleball and tennis courts for those who want to keep moving, and Old Waverly’s golf course is a must for anyone who enjoys the game. The West Point Senior Center offers programs to help older residents stay connected. Healthcare here is reliable, with the North Mississippi Medical Center just a short drive away in Tupelo, and local healthcare facilities offering services that ensure peace of mind.

For those looking to settle into a retirement that’s a little quieter but no less fulfilling, West Point has what many are looking for. West Point’s ability to offer a kind of ease and simplicity is a strong point of its allure.

10. Moss Point

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 18.7%

Median Home Value: $90,800

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 25

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 256

Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 4

If you love the great outdoors, Moss Point is the place for you. This city is known for its river and marsh boating tours, but you can also kayak and fish. If the water isn’t your cup of tea, you may try your hand at the Palace Casino Resort, which has a hotel, spa, dining, and golf course. Known as the “River City,” Moss Point has always embraced the waterways that cut through it. The Pascagoula River defines the town, serving as a natural highway and a backdrop to life here.

Not far from the Gulf of Mexico, Moss Point is nestled away in the southeastern corner of the state. Mobile, Alabama, lies just 35 miles to the east, and the bustling streets of Biloxi are about 30 miles to the west. These nearby cities offer plenty of urban diversions, but Moss Point is the kind of place where the quietness of nature takes center stage.

For retirees, Moss Point presents an alluring simplicity. The town’s close proximity to the coast and the Pascagoula River Audubon Center provides opportunities to engage with nature, birdwatching, and kayaking becoming more than just hobbies. This center, one of the town’s key attractions, is perfect for those interested in ecology and conservation. It offers a peaceful escape while still keeping you close to home.

For those looking to get out and enjoy the outdoors, there’s Shepard State Park nearby, a serene stretch of land offering hiking, fishing, and even disc golf. If golf is more your speed, the nearby Hickory Hill Country Club offers scenic courses that wind through southern pines. For tennis and pickleball, you’ll find courts at local community centers where you can enjoy friendly games with other locals.

You’re never far from live music, especially blues and country, in the coastal cities nearby. Dining is rich in Southern comfort food with a heavy emphasis on fresh seafood. Local spots offer everything from fried catfish to Gulf shrimp, while small boutiques and local markets provide shopping experiences that feel personal and charming.

The town offers senior centers and programs aimed at maintaining a social and active lifestyle. You can find organized events that range from arts and crafts to walking clubs, allowing older residents to stay engaged with the community. The healthcare options are solid, too, with nearby hospitals in Pascagoula and Biloxi providing quality care without the long commutes to major cities.

Moss Point might not have the gloss of larger cities, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for with character, nature, and a deep sense of community. Let the quiet of the river and the whispering pines be a common thread during your retirement years.

Common Questions About Retiring in Mississippi

Is Mississippi a tax-friendly state for retirees?

Mississippi exempts all forms of retirement income from taxation, including Social Security benefits, income from an IRA, income from a 401(k), and any pension income.

Is Mississippi good for retirees?

Mississippi is extremely welcoming to retirees. The Magnolia State’s certified retirement community program has a list of 21 communities that have passed a rigorous certification process.

City Name	People Over 65	Violent Crimes	Property Crimes	Access to Doctors	Median Home Price
Clarksdale	15.0%	25	204	3	$65,400
Yazoo City	11.5%	37	321	2	$70,900
Indianola	16.1%	124	514	4	$76,400
Greenville	15.5%	67	1,534	4	$78,300
Meridian	16.2%	181	1,475	5	$83,300
Laurel	16.6%	125	800	2	$85,800
Greenwood	13.0%	79	697	1	$87,900
McComb	13.6%	112	717	7	$88,800
West Point	17.5%	39	292	4	$89,600
Moss Point	18.7%	25	256	4	$90,800
Jackson	12.4%	1,341	7,515	13	$90,700
Grenada	16.4%	18	68	3	$97,600
Natchez	21.2%	63	621	3	$97,500
Brookhaven	16.5%	45	387	4	$100,300
Horn Lake	8.2%	31	676	17	$106,400
Vicksburg	14.4%	144	1,111	2	$108,500
Picayune	16.1%	51	448	10	$110,100
Pascagoula	14.3%	56	1,241	4	$110,900
Hattiesburg	11.4%	106	2,065	4	$113,200
Canton	15.6%	9	57	10	$119,200

NewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services, Medicare’s Hospital Compare and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. Median home price, number of hospitals, 65+ population, and crime rates were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each city whose population is at least 10,000.