Retiring in Mississippi: a complete guide

What are the pros and cons of retiring in Mississippi?

The pros:

• Mild climate: Mississippi has a subtropical climate, with mild winters and warm summers. This makes it an attractive destination for retirees who want to avoid harsh weather conditions. 

• Southern charm: Mississippi is known for its southern hospitality, with friendly locals and a laid-back lifestyle. Retirees can enjoy living in a charming environment that offers a slower pace of life and a sense of community. 

• Outdoor activities: Mississippi is home to numerous state parks, forests, and beaches, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. 

• Affordable cost of living: Mississippi's cost of living is generally lower than the national average, which could be a draw for retirees on a fixed income. Housing and healthcare costs, in particular, are lower than in many other states. 

The cons:

• Limited cultural scene: Mississippi has a more limited cultural scene compared to some other states. While there are museums, galleries, and performing arts venues, they may not be as plentiful or as diverse as in other areas. 

• Limited job opportunities: Mississippi's job market is smaller than in some other states, which could be a concern for retirees who want to work part-time or continue their careers in retirement. 

• Natural disasters: Mississippi is prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, which could be a concern for retirees living in certain areas. However, the state has strong emergency management systems in place to mitigate risks and respond to emergencies. 

If you’re still undecided, why not speak to an expert? A financial advisor can review your unique situation and help you create a retirement plan. Find your SEC-regulated financial advisor here.

Where are the best places to retire in Mississippi?

If Mississippi is your chosen retirement state, here are some of the best places to retire in:

1. Jackson: Jackson is the capital city of Mississippi and offers a vibrant cultural scene, best known for its museums and historical landmarks. It is an ideal location for potential retirees seeking all of the amenities of the city but with a small-town feel.

2. Long Beach: Long Beach is a coastal city located along the Gulf of Mexico. It boasts a relatively lower cost of living than the rest of the state and offers countless marine activities including fishing, sailing, and swimming along its beautiful beaches.

3. Hattiesburg: Hattiesburg is a small city located in southern Mississippi, home to the University of Southern Mississippi. The city is noted for its small-town charm and atmosphere despite being a booming metropolitan area. It is often selected as one of the best towns to retire in the US.

4. Aberdeen: Located on the banks of the Tombigbee River, Aberdeen is a picturesque small town with a low cost of living, low crime rate, and quality medical care. The town is best known for its magnolia-lined streets, gardens, and historic homes.

5. Vicksburg: Vicksburg is a small city in western Mississippi on the banks of the Mississippi River. The historic city is home to multiple museums, and historical sites, and boasts the largest collection of public art in the state. Its low cost of living makes Vicksburg a comfortable and peaceful location for potential retirees.  

What age can you retire in Mississippi?

Like many states, Mississippi has no specific retirement age that is mandated by law. This means that individuals are free to retire whenever they choose, as long as they are able to financially support themselves. However, there are some age-related benefits and considerations for retirees in Mississippi: 

• Social Security benefits: The earliest age at which you can begin receiving Social Security benefits is 62, but if you delay taking benefits, your monthly payments will increase. Full retirement age (FRA) is between 66 and 67, depending on your birth year. Delaying benefits until after FRA can result in even higher monthly payments. 

• Medicare eligibility: Medicare eligibility begins at age 65, regardless of retirement status. However, if you choose to retire before age 65, you will need to find alternative healthcare coverage until you become eligible for Medicare. 

• Age discrimination: It is illegal for employers to discriminate against employees or job applicants based on age. 

• Retirement savings: Regardless of retirement age, it is important for individuals to start saving for retirement as early as possible. Many financial experts recommend saving at least 15% of your income for retirement. 

However, like any location, there are both pros and cons to retiring in the state.