7 Best Towns In Mississippi For Retirees

Looking to enjoy your golden years in a place that blends charm, comfort, and affordability? Mississippi offers a range of retirement-friendly towns that check all the boxes. From scenic riverfront communities to vibrant college towns, the Magnolia State is home to hidden gems where quality of life meets Southern hospitality. With access to respected healthcare facilities, a range of housing options suited for retirees, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder so many choose Mississippi as their retirement destination. Whether it's live blues music echoing through the streets of Clarksdale or the coastal breeze in Ocean Springs, these seven Mississippi towns offer ideal settings for a relaxed and fulfilling retirement.

Brandon

Just outside Jackson, Brandon offers a suburban feel with all the conveniences of a larger city nearby. It has a population of just over 25,000 residents, creating a small community that is welcoming to retirees. The median home price of approximately $280,000 as of June 2025 represents good value for this family-friendly community that balances quiet residential areas with convenient access to shopping and services.

Retirees can enjoy days at the Ross Barnett Reservoir, take part in concerts and events at the Brandon Amphitheater, or explore the shops and cafes in the quaint downtown district. For nature lovers, Winner's Circle Park offers scenic walking trails and peaceful green space. As for healthcare, the town is home to Merit Health Rankin, a full-service hospital with a strong reputation. There are also several senior living communities, such as Castlewoods Place, which offers both independent and assisted living options.

Ocean Springs

Nestled on the coast of Biloxi Bay, Ocean Springs is an all-time favorite for those who know Mississippi. This seaside town is known as the “City of Discovery” for its rich history and artistic flair. It stands out as one of the friendliest small towns in Mississippi, and the best for retirees, offering an exceptional blend of affordability, coastal charm, and quality of life. With a median home price of $270,000, significantly below the national average of approximately $370,000, and no state tax on retirement income, it provides financial advantages that are hard to overlook. Ocean Springs stands out as one of Mississippi’s safest places to retire, thanks to its notably low crime rates, reporting just 23 violent crimes in 2019. This translates to approximately 128 per 100,000 residents, significantly below the national average of around 370.

Retirees can enjoy a variety of activities in Ocean Springs. Active seniors can explore the Gulf Islands National Seashore or relax on the white sandy beaches. The community's vibrant arts scene is exemplified by the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, featuring vibrant pieces of work such as Antelope and After the Fire. Additionally, attractions like Front Beach provide seniors with ample opportunities for leisure. Healthcare needs are well-served with facilities like the Ocean Springs Health & Rehabilitation Center offering Medicare-certified services with 115 beds as of June 2025.

Corinth

Corinth is a top retirement destination in the Magnolia State, offering a blend of affordability, rich history, and a welcoming community. Retirees can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without financial strain, with the median home price being approximately $170,000, making housing accessible and budget-friendly. Magnolia Regional Health Center provides healthcare services locally, with dedicated departments for respiratory care, diabetes, rehabilitation, and even a sleep lab. Moreover, Memphis International Airport is about 90 minutes away for those needing commercial flights.

For those who find the amenities up to par, the attractions are just as nice. Corinth beckons retirees with its Civil War heritage and genuine southern charm. The town’s historic district features the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center and Crossroads Museum, showcasing everything from a historic depot to military equipment. On the other hand, outdoor enthusiasts enjoy nearby Pickwick Lake and Shiloh National Military Park.

Clarksdale

If you are looking for a relaxing, easy-going place where music fills the atmosphere, Clarksdale is an ideal retirement spot. Sitting in the heart of the Delta, a region known as much for its rich soil as for its rich musical heritage, Clarksdale is a small town with a big legacy. It is located just 75 miles southwest of Memphis and about 150 miles northwest of the state capital, Jackson. With a median home price of approximately $100,000, nearly half the state average, retirees can stretch their savings while enjoying a low cost of living. Healthcare needs are met by facilities like the Clarksdale Nursing Center and Greenbough Health and Rehabilitation Center, both offering skilled nursing care.

“Home of the Blues,” Clarksdale is a major hub of live entertainment where performers serenade people with their unique sounds year-round. Attractions include the Delta Blues Museum, which showcases the history of blues music, the iconic Crossroads, steeped in legend, and live performances at venues like Ground Zero Blues Club. The annual Juke Joint Festival is another highlight, a vibrant celebration that blends the old with the new, attracting visitors of all ages.

Greenville

Perched on the western edge of the state, right along the Mississippi River, Greenville offers seniors a laid-back, small-town atmosphere with a wide selection of activities. With a population of under 30,000, it provides a sense of community that’s hard to find in larger cities. Housing is particularly affordable, with median home prices around $100,000, making homeownership accessible for many. The Delta Regional Medical Center is nearby, offering various specialties including cardiology, internal medicine, and emergency services. Larger medical facilities in Jackson and Memphis are accessible within a few hours' drive. Outdoor types enjoy hiking at Leroy Percy State Park, which boasts two observation towers overlooking Alligator Lake. Golf enthusiasts can head to the Greenville Golf & Country Club for a round of golf on a well-maintained course.

Bay St. Louis

Bay St. Louis captivates retirees with its picturesque coastal setting and vibrant arts community. This coastal town was influenced by French colonists, who were the first European settlers in the area, and whose culture still influences the small city today. Bay St. Louis boasts a low cost of living, affordable housing options, and low crime rates. The median home price of approximately $240,000 represents good value for Gulf Coast living. As for healthcare, skilled nursing and long-term care services are located nearby, such as the Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, which provides comprehensive medical services.

The town's Old Town district is a hub of activity, featuring locally owned boutiques, art galleries, and eateries. The Alice Moseley Folk Art and Antique Museum, located in the Bay St. Louis Railroad Depot, offers a glimpse into the work of folk artist and painter Alice Moseley. For active retirees, there are scenic views along the Bay St. Louis Bridge, opportunities to relax at local beaches, and spots to go camping, hiking, and fishing at Buccaneer State Park.

Greenwood

Set right in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Greenwood is a small town at the intersection of the Tallahatchie and Yalobusha rivers. Greenwood's cost of living makes it an attractive option for retirees seeking financial comfort. The median home price is around $150,000, significantly lower than the U.S. median, allowing retirees to find affordable housing options. Nicknamed the “Cotton Capital of the World,” Greenwood is also a cultural landmark, deeply tied to the blues born out of the Delta. American blues legends like Robert Johnson have roots in the area. Retirees enjoy coming together at the annual Greenwood Blues Fest, where the downtown area, lined with historic buildings, offers a sense of nostalgia. For older residents, there are regular events at the Greenwood Senior Center, which offers services designed to support retirees.

A Peaceful Retirement In Mississippi

Mississippi offers a welcoming and affordable haven for retirees seeking charm, comfort, and quality of life. Whether you're drawn to the artistic coastal vibes of Bay St. Louis, the rich cultural history of Greenwood, or the peace of small-town living throughout the state, Mississippi has a town that suits your retirement goals. With lower-than-average housing costs, access to quality healthcare, and a strong sense of community, these towns provide the perfect setting for a fulfilling and relaxed retirement lifestyle. From scenic getaways to vibrant arts and music scenes, Mississippi proves that retirement can be both affordable and inspiring.