Top 15 Cities to Live in Mississippi for Quality Life

How often during childhood did you face the challenge of spelling Mississippi? Can you do it now? Close your eyes and take a moment to try!

The state of Mississippi stands out as more than just a word to spell; it is a region rich in history, culture, and tradition, bordered by the Gulf of Mexico to the south and home to the Mississippi Delta.

Whether you are earnestly exploring options for residency in Mississippi or casually considering your choices, there are specific criteria that you may already be evaluating, including low crime rates, a reasonable cost of living, and the quality of housing available.

Additional considerations often include access to public education, employment opportunities, and proximity to healthcare services. Acknowledging that gathering all this information in a concise format can be overwhelming, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to assist you in this decision-making process.

Below is our curated list of 15 optimal locations to reside in Mississippi, taking into account various factors that may influence your choice.

1. Madison

Source: pmsyyz / Flickr

Located in Madison County, Madison is an idyllic town with a population of approximately twenty-eight thousand residents. The town boasts lush greenery, serene lakes, and numerous outdoor activities for residents to enjoy. While outdoors, residents can engage in kayaking activities on the Ross Barnett Reservoir.

The community offers many attractions, including the town center’s shopping venues and its annual arts and crafts festivals. Conveniently located for professionals, there are ample job opportunities with nearby access to Jackson and Ridgeland. The local economy is robust, with an unemployment rate of 3.7%, significantly lower than the national average. Moreover, the cost of living is 0.9% below the national average, rendering Madison an appealing choice for families seeking affordable living without compromising on culture, art, and healthcare.

Entertainment & Activities

Notable activities in Madison include:

• Mississippi Children’s Museum
• Friendship Park
• Malco Grandview Cinema
• Strawberry Patch Park
• Shaggy’s on the Rez Restaurant

2. Arnold Line

Source: Google Maps

Arnold Line is a small, friendly town experiencing growth, with a resident count of around fifteen hundred, marking an impressive increase of fifty-seven percent since 2020.

The area is conducive to various outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and camping within its scenic hills and valleys. Living in Arnold Line offers the benefit of small-town charm with access to the amenities of larger cities like Jackson and Tupelo.

Residents enjoy a moderate climate, making it ideal for families interested in outdoor pursuits. Its strong community ties and laid-back atmosphere present Arnold Line as an excellent option for many individuals and families.

Entertainment & Activities

Popular activities in Arnold Line include:

• Hattiesburg Zoo
• Hub Bowling Lanes
• The University of Southern Mississippi
• Vicksburg National Military Park
• Pep’s Point Water Park
• Biloxi Beach
• Longleaf Trace Biking Trail
• Southern Prohibition Brewing
• Hattiesburg Speedway

3. Ridgeland

Source: pmsyyz / Flickr

Situated in Madison County, Ridgeland is home to approximately twenty-four thousand residents and is a highly regarded place to live in Mississippi. Ridgeland has become a favored destination for those seeking employment opportunities.

The city also hosts an exceptional school system, making it an attractive option for families with children. Ridgeland is recognized for its affordable living, vibrant arts scene, and accessible healthcare.

The unemployment rate in Ridgeland is recorded at 4.8%, below the national average, while the cost of living is 12% less than that of the country at large. For families seeking quality schools and reasonable living expenses, Ridgeland stands out as an ideal residence.

Entertainment & Activities

In Ridgeland, residents enjoy:

• Renaissance at Colony Park
• Dogmud Tavern Restaurant
• Freedom Ridge Park
• Northpark Shopping Mall
• Ridgeland Tennis Center
• Sky Zone Trampoline Park

4. Clinton

Source: Ken Lund / Flickr

With a population of nearly twenty-five thousand, Clinton has witnessed consistent growth since 2020. Residents enjoy favorable salaries, with the average median income around $60,000.

Living in Clinton allows you to explore notable attractions, including the Clinton Community Nature Center and Vicksburg National Military Park.

Additionally, Clinton is among the most aesthetically pleasing areas in the South, with a cost of living approximately 16% lower than the national average. For those considering a move to Clinton, you can anticipate reasonable housing costs, averaging around $200,000 per home.

Entertainment & Activities

Highlighting the attractions in Clinton:

• Clinton Community Nature Center
• Indian Lanes Bowling Alley
• Traceway Park
• Wyatt Waters Gallery
• Mississippi Art Museum
• Old Capitol Museum
• Funtime Skateland of Clinton

5. Ocean Springs

Source: Fotoluminate LLC / shutterstock

Ocean Springs surrounds the Gulf Islands National Seashore, a cherished national park for local residents. As the smallest community on our list with a population of seventeen thousand, the beaches here typically remain uncrowded.

Home values are reasonable, with an average median home price at $150,000, allowing for investment in a modest three-bedroom, two-bathroom family home located just minutes from the beach for under $200,000.

Ocean Springs also boasts the second-best school district in Mississippi. While crime statistics may raise concerns, residents affirm that the region is safe, characterized by a warm sense of Southern hospitality.

Entertainment & Activities

Prominent activities to engage in Ocean Springs include:

• Walter Anderson Museum of Art
• Coastal Magpie
• Hillyer House
• Ocean Springs Museum
• Ocean Springs Fresh Market
• Golf Hills Golf Club
• Lost Spring Brewing Company
• The Art House Art Gallery

6. Oxford

Source: Bryan Pollard / shutterstock

Oxford, the first locale highlighted in Lafayette County, presents median housing prices comparable to those in Madison, aligning with the national average. Notably, the monthly rent averages around $1,000—the lowest figure on this list, making it an attractive option for renters.

This suburb is increasingly favored by millennials, largely due to the affordable rents that enable earlier savings towards homeownership.

While Oxford does not boast the wealth of some other areas, the average household income of about $35,000 goes along with commendably low crime rates.

Entertainment & Activities

Attractions in Oxford include:

• Rowan Oak
• University of Mississippi Museum
• Square Books Book Store
• Lamar Park
• Swayze Field
• The Grove Park
• Southside Gallery
• Oxford Community Market

7. Brandon

Source: jimmywayne / Flickr

Situated beneath Route 20 and to the east of Jackson lies Brandon, offering an appealing suburban lifestyle. This community of twenty-three thousand residents enjoys low crime rates and a high sense of safety.

Brandon is family-friendly, with ten outstanding schools in the vicinity. The city provides a rich variety of amenities, including grocery stores, cinemas, and parks, alongside comprehensive healthcare facilities.

With an average annual household income of over $70,000, the area demonstrates economic stability and provides residents with the necessary comforts of suburban life.

Entertainment & Activities

Residents can engage in various activities in Brandon, including:

• Brandon Amphitheater
• Mississippi Museum of Natural Science
• Winners Circle Park
• DEFY Jackson Amusement Center
• The Gallows Bar
• Bobby Cleveland Park at Lakeshore
• Spinners of Florence Bowling Alley

8. Petal

Source: sevenMaps7 / shutterstock

The charming town of Petal is situated along the Leaf River, serving as a northeastern suburb of Hattiesburg. This affordable area is characterized by a robust selection of public schools, making it an ideal location for families.

Home to roughly eleven thousand residents, the average household income aligns with national standards at $53,000, indicating a stable economy.

Real estate opportunities are favorable—buyers can secure a three-bedroom, two-bathroom family home with a swimming pool at below the national average, a rarity in many areas.

Entertainment & Activities

Popular activities in Petal include:

• Roll Around Fun Center
• Hattiesburg Pocket Museum
• Laser Mania
• Kamper Park
• Blu Jazz Cafe
• Petal Relay Park

9. Tupelo

Source: Pilot MKN / Flickr

Tupelo is notably recognized as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, making it a point of interest for fans. The city offers exceptional job prospects with large employers such as Toyota, Cooper Tire, and Ashley Furniture, ensuring a stable economy.

Median annual incomes hover around $41,000; however, the local economy remains resilient, largely due to the affordability of housing, with many properties priced below the national average.

For individuals willing to enter the manufacturing sector, Tupelo serves as an excellent choice for acquiring an affordable property requiring some renovations.

Entertainment & Activities

In Tupelo, residents can enjoy:

• Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo
• The Mall at Barnes Crossing
• Ballard Park
• Queen’s Reward Meadery
• Tupelo National Battlefield
• Oren Dunn City Museum
• The Natchez Trace
• Trace State Park
• Blue Canoe Bar

10. West Hattiesburg

Source: Water Tower Nut / Flickr

The suburb of West Hattiesburg is located just west of Hattiesburg in Lamar County and offers a convenient 15-minute drive to the city. This suburb epitomizes the commuter lifestyle.

Rentals are notably low, with averages below $1,000 per month. Consequently, approximately 53% of residents opt for rental accommodations. Despite appearing transient, a strong community persists, with many expressing satisfaction with life in West Hattiesburg.

Even though there are few schools directly within West Hattiesburg, the proximity to Hattiesburg provides broader educational opportunities for local children.

Entertainment & Activities

Things to do in West Hattiesburg include:

• Turtle Creek Mall
• Longleaf Trace
• Hattiesburg Pocket Museum
• The Lucky Rabbit Flea Market
• Hattiesburg Saenger Theater
• Crescent City Grill

11. Gulf Park Estates

Source: www.zillow.com

For those who wish to awaken to the soothing sea breeze, Gulf Park Estates warrants your attention.

This intimate community comprises just 6,100 residents, fostering a close-knit environment. A diverse range of properties is available, from spacious family homes with double garages at around $174,900 to three-bedroom, two-bathroom homes starting at approximately $108,000, ensuring a fit for various budgets.

More affluent than places like Tupelo, Gulf Park Estates has an average household income of $70,100, while housing prices remain moderate with a median of $133,800.

Entertainment & Activities

Activities to enjoy in Gulf Park Estates include:

• Walter Anderson Museum of Art
• Biloxi Beach
• DaBayou Bar & Grill
• Betsy Ann Riverboat

12. Flowood

Source: sevenMaps7 / shutterstock

Flowood, located as the northernmost suburb of Jackson, is home to about eight thousand residents, creating its unique small-town culture. Adequate amenities cater to residents, reducing the need to travel into Jackson for daily necessities.

As the pricier alternative among Jackson suburbs, the median home value exceeds $200,000, while the average household income lags slightly below the national average, explaining the higher proportion of residents in rented accommodations.

Entertainment & Activities

Popular attractions in Flowood include:

• Winner Circle Park
• Pacesetter Gallery
• Flowood Nature Center
• The Refuge Golf Course
• Party Safari Amusement Park
• Amerigo Italian Restaurant
• Crystal Lake

13. Olive Branch

Source: simplerich / Flickr

The calm and inviting Olive Branch serves as a southeastern suburb of Memphis, with a robust population of thirty-five thousand residents. The area is noted for its high-quality public schools, earning it the title of the best suburban area for education in Mississippi.

Residents enjoy ample job opportunities facilitated by the area’s growing economy and a prevailing sense of Southern hospitality. Family-friendly, the community welcomes newcomers warmly.

Entertainment & Activities

Noteworthy activities and locations in Olive Branch include:

• Malco Olive Branch Cinema Grill
• Olive Branch City Park
• Strike Zone Bowling
• Graceland Museum
• Cherokee Valley Golf Club
• Olive Branch Family YMCA
• Oak View Stables
• Memphis Zoo

14. Starkville

Source: NatalieMaynor / Flickr

Visitors and potential residents are encouraged to explore Stromboli’s for unparalleled Italian cuisine—a genuine local gem loved by all. With around twenty-five thousand residents, Starkville enjoys a healthy community spirit.

This area has a well-educated population, with 25% having attained a master’s degree or higher, featuring a diverse demographic. Despite an average household income of just over $30,000, feedback from residents points to a strong sense of satisfaction with their living conditions, reflecting the town’s reputation as a “small town with a big heart.”

Entertainment & Activities

Enjoyable activities in Starkville feature:

• Mississippi State University
• Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern
• Rick’s Cafe
• Davis Wade Stadium
• Dudy Noble Field
• Starkville Community Market
• Historic Hotel Chester
• Starkville Community Theatre

15. Pass Christian

Source: travelview / shutterstock

The quaint community of Pass Christian in Harrison County is home to just over five thousand residents. This friendly environment fosters familiarity among residents.

Rent prices are surprisingly low given the town’s coastal location. Commonly referred to as “The Pass,” locals take pride in their small restaurants and diners, expressing relief that large chain restaurants have yet to establish a presence in the area.

The housing market is notably attractive, especially with many homes offering picturesque seaside views.

Entertainment & Activities

Activities to explore in Pass Christian include:

• War Memorial Park
• Pass Christian Isles Golf Club
• OutKast Charters
• Pass Christian Books
• Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
• Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum
• Betsy Ann Riverboat
• Enchanted Nature Trail
• Mississippi Aquarium