Retiring in Mississippi: a complete guide
This article will take you through the main things you need to consider if you plan to spend your retirement in Mississippi.
Summary
Mississippi had a population of approximately 2.9 million people, with over 15% of the population over the age of 65.
Mississippis' mild climate, affordable cost of living, and abundance of outdoor activities are just some of the reasons people choose to retire there. However, its limited cultural scene and the occurrence of natural disasters often hold people back.
Jackson, the capital of Mississippi, is listed as one of the best spots to choose if you plan on retiring in the state.
Unbiased can match you with a financial advisor who can help you plan and realize your dream retirement, wherever it may be.
Is Mississippi a good place to retire?
Mississippi is a lesser-known but attractive retirement destination for many Americans seeking a laid-back lifestyle with access to outdoor activities, southern charm, and a mild climate.
With its beautiful beaches, forests, and historic towns, Mississippi offers a unique retirement experience that is gaining popularity among retirees every year.
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau in 2020, Mississippi had a population of approximately 2.9 million people, with over 15% of the population being over the age of 65, making it one of the top states with a large retirement population.
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If you’re still unsure about where to retire, it’s wise to seek expert advice.
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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:
Jackson: Jackson is the capital city of Mississippi and offers a vibrant cultural scene. It is best known for its museums and historical landmarks. It is an ideal location for potential retirees seeking all of the city's amenities but with a small-town feel.
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.
Hattiesburg: Hattiesburg is a small city in southern Mississippi, home to the University of Southern Mississippi. The city is noted for its small-town charm and atmosphere. It is often selected as one of the best towns to retire in the US.
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.
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 are the pros and cons of retiring in Mississippi?
When determining where you want to spend your retirement, it’s vital you weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of your chosen location. Here are some to get you started.
The pros of retiring in Mississippi:
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 of retiring in Mississippi:
Limited cultural scene: Mississippi's cultural scene is more limited than that of some other states. While there are museums, galleries, and performing arts venues, they may not be as plentiful or diverse as in other areas.
Limited job opportunities: Mississippi's job market is smaller than that of 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.
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 support themselves financially.
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, you need to start saving for retirement as early as possible. Many financial experts recommend saving at least 15% of your income for retirement.
What is the Mississippi cost of living?
Mississippi is home to one of the lowest costs of living in the US.
According to Forbes, which examined the cost of living for 2024 across all states in the US, Mississippi stood out with its low cost of living, with residents spending an average of just over $32,000 on essential expenses each year.
This is compared to Hawaii, which had the nicest cost at over $55,000.
While the cost of living in Mississippi is low, it’s important to note so is the average annual salary.
The average salary in Mississippi stands at $45,180.
Choosing where you plan to retire is a big life decision, so it’s best to get expert advice. A financial advisor can look at all your options and how your savings stack up and help you make an informed decision about where the right location for your retirement is.
Frequently asked questions
Content writer
Kate has written for leading publications and blue chip companies over the last 20 years.