11 Of The Best Affordable Towns To Retire In Mississippi

Mississippi exempts all retirement income from tax, making it one of the most affordable states for senior citizens to settle. However, the retiree population in the state, which accounts for about 18% of the population, is not drawn solely by affordable living costs. Mississippi experiences warm, subtropical weather year-round, with mild winters and easy access to the Gulf Coast. Furthermore, its small towns demonstrate an authentic sense of community, characterized by genuine Southern hospitality, to create an environment where any retiree will thrive. Retirees can relax thanks to many amenities, like the Monroe General Hospital in Aberdeen and the Morton Public Library in Morton. Below are some of the best affordable towns to retire in Mississippi.

Ellisville

Ellisville is a close-knit town in Jones County that keeps the community together with continuous outdoor activities at Merchant's Park. This is where everyone gathers for recreation, featuring an eclectic mix of amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. The park also hosts various social events and youth leagues, giving a family-friendly atmosphere. Retirees will love spending their downtime searching for eccentric treasures at Carpenter Bros. Emporium of Wonderful Whatnots. This two-story establishment boasts a welcoming atmosphere and a vast inventory of one-of-a-kind items, such as VHS tapes, artwork, and vintage games, that can captivate seasoned antique collectors for an entire day.

Charlie's Catfish House is the perfect spot for lunch meet-ups and dinner dates, serving patrons sumptuous seafood dishes with a touch of Southern hospitality. Meanwhile, Ellisville houses multiple assisted living facilities that improve the quality of life for aged pensioners, including Jones County Rest Home. According to Zillow, the average home value in Ellisville is $180,405 as of February 2026, which is below the state average of $186,256.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a small town full of charm along the Tombigbee River, with a quaint, walkable historic district. It provides pensioners with moments of ease at the Aberdeen Marina, which boasts a picturesque waterfront overlooking the Tenn-Tom Waterway and offers access to the water for a relaxing boat cruise. Retirees who enjoy fishing can take advantage of fine bass fishing opportunities at the Aberdeen Lock & Dam Recreation Area. Peaceful picnic spots and playgrounds on the sites attract families looking to spend quality time in the outdoors.

Aberdeen delivers a modern cinematic experience inside the Aberdeen Elkin Theatre. This local treasure showcases classic and contemporary Box Office hits on a single screen in an intimate atmosphere, attracting older adults and kids alike. The town further has Monroe Regional Hospital to handle any medical needs among retirees, while the average home value is $143,052.

Kosciusko

70 miles from Jackson, Kosciusko is the birthplace of Oprah Winfrey and boasts a historic downtown area anchored by the century-old Attala County Courthouse. This Classic Revival-style building dominates the local skyline with its gorgeous design and welcomes public tours that reveal its architectural designs, historic documents, and a closer look at its domed central tower. Every Thursday through Saturday, newly settled retirees can build their friendship network at the Central Mississippi Flea Market, where dozens of vendors sell produce, antiques, crafts, and other merchandise. The vibrant social atmosphere allows them to meet new people and strike a hearty conversation that may lead to a lifelong connection.

Those who want to take it easy outdoors can do so during a golf challenge at the Redbud Springs Golf & Country Club, which offers 9 challenging holes on well-groomed fairways, ideal for players of all skill levels. All medical care needs are provided by Baptist Memorial Hospital-Attala, and the average Kosciusko home value is $104,721.

Ashland

This tiny village in Benton County offers seniors a relaxed, rural environment where they can spend their golden years in peace and privacy. With Holly Springs National Forest less than a 20-minute drive away, there is no shortage of outdoor recreational options available to residents. These range from scenic drives and hunting expeditions to hiking excursions away from civilization, ideal for active seniors. Every fall, the Benton County Fairgrounds hosts the fun-filled Benton County Fair, featuring a long list of entertaining activities for all ages, including rodeo competitions, agricultural shows, kids' games, and more.

Ashland's 19th-century heritage is evident in the cool buildings that decorate its downtown, led by the Benton County Courthouse. This was built in 1873 and features a distinctive Greek Revival-style facade. Lastly, Benton Medical Center provides general healthcare services to treat common illnesses and conditions that may affect retirees, and the average home value here is $125,048.

Holly Springs

Holly Springs is home to the historic Rust College, where retirees can take advantage of lifelong learning opportunities via auditing the college classes to actualize their academic aspirations in life, even after their careers. The institution has also elevated the local art scene, providing pensioners with a chance to tap into their creative side. This is possible at the Kate Freeman Clark Art Gallery, which exhibits an inspiring collection of paintings and drawings by an accomplished local artist and hosts various social events.

A peaceful atmosphere and rich natural environment at Wall Doxey State Park invite senior citizens to isolate, unwind, and reflect. This lovely outdoor space, situated along a scenic 60-acre reservoir, also offers enjoyable recreational activities, including fishing, strolling, boating, and camping. Additionally, Christopher's Manor is one of several assisted living communities in Holly Springs, offering a warm, welcoming environment for seniors in need through supportive care and services tailored to each individual. Lastly, the average home value in Holly Springs is $168,550.

Carthage

Carthage boasts a well-preserved historic district that beckons to lazy walks along its walkable streets, offering retirees a chance to explore some of the town's treasures. Prominent among these is the Leake County Courthouse, built in the 1930s and featuring elaborate architectural elements, including a cast-stone base and a combination of brown and cream bricks. The town offers several parks for retirees who love an active lifestyle, including McMillan Park. This recreational oasis features picnic areas, walking trails, playgrounds, lush vegetation, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation, whether alone or with friends.

Senior citizens who enjoy dining experiences can find a delectable one at El Cabrito Mexican Restaurant. This family-owned diner, with its traditional decor and hospitable staff, serves authentic, made-from-scratch Mexican dishes. Carthage is also home to the Baptist Medical Center Leake, and its average home value is $159,580.

Morton

Morton has an average home value of $86,319, which makes it one of the most affordable towns to retire in Mississippi. Despite this, it doesn't compromise on critical social amenities, allowing pensioners to benefit from the services at Ochsner Scott Regional. This 25-bed critical access facility provides an array of inpatient and outpatient services in a comfortable environment. The Morton Public Library is another essential resource for retirees, offering a peaceful space where they can engage their minds through reading, research, and participation in academic programs alongside others with shared interests, fostering a more purposeful lifestyle.

Morton's sleepy town houses several family-owned diners where seniors can meet up for a hearty meal. The Ribcage is a popular option, renowned for serving delicious steaks and fried chicken that will elevate any conversation. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the 179,000-acre Bienville National Forest is just a short drive away, offering scenic trails, wildlife viewing, and peaceful picnic areas that provide an easy escape into nature without leaving town.

Chunky

This small town, situated along the Chunky River, delights seniors with fun paddling adventures down the winding waterway. The Chunky River Trading Post serves as the local hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering kayaking, rafting, and canoeing equipment, as well as guided tours that explore the lush scenery along the river's course. The annual Chunky River Raft Race brings everyone together for a family-friendly tradition that celebrates river heritage and serves as a fundraiser for community members in need. While the race is sometimes put on hold, one can still head out on the river for fun with friends, even without any events.

Chunky has several local diners, but the most popular for many is Cajun Cooking. This inviting diner offers patrons delicious Cajun cuisine and genuine Southern hospitality, promising retirees a truly remarkable dining experience. While there aren't many dedicated senior homes in Chunky, the town is only 25 minutes from the Preserve at Meridian in nearby Meridian. Lastly, the average home value in the area is $144,760.

Natchez

Natchez has an average home value of $113,365, making it one of the best affordable towns to retire in Mississippi. Despite its overall affordability, the town offers a range of essential social amenities, led by Merit Health Natchez. The hospital is renowned for its senior wellness services, which range from health screenings and lectures to special events specifically designed to benefit seniors. Strolling through Natchez's historic district is a therapeutic experience that allows retirees to travel back in time. The neighborhood is dotted with antebellum mansions, including Longwood, which features interactive exhibits depicting life before the Civil War.

In the evenings, pensioners can spare a few minutes for a pint of beer at Natchez Brewing Company. This cool spot in downtown serves tasty craft brews and offers a lively environment where you can make new friends. The scenic Natchez Trace Parkway cuts through the community, and retirees can cruise along it to clear their minds and enjoy the lush landscapes.

Greenville

One of the main reasons retirees should consider settling down in Greenville is its average home value of $43,708. This is pretty affordable compared to the United States average of $357,275. Furthermore, there are numerous recreational opportunities at the Greenville Cypress Preserve Trust. This peaceful oasis spans 16 acres of hardwood and meadows, with two primary trails winding under a dense canopy. Meanwhile, the EE Bass Cultural Arts Center enriches the community with visual and performance art. This premier facility offers a delightful atmosphere for retirees to enjoy engaging plays and dramas, or admire intimate art exhibitions.

Alternatively, they can watch the latest movies at Greenville-Nelco Cineplex, which is renowned for serving a variety of delicious concessions before the movie, including popcorn, soda, and candy. Lastly, older adults can join a welcoming community of peers at Magnolia Gardens of Greenville and make fun memories in their golden years.

Baldwyn

This small community in northeast Mississippi attracts retirees with an engaging Civil War history lesson at the Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site, which commemorates an 1864 military engagement. The 1-acre park features a flagpole, two cannons, a memorial monument, and an on-site interpretive center that exhibits information about the battle and the war. Meanwhile, retirees with archeological aspirations can discover a new hobby at W.M. Browning Cretaceous Fossil Park, renowned for its rare prehistoric fossils, including animal bones and shark teeth. It provides a delightful escape in a shady creek setting whenever residents want some quality alone time.

The town offers culinary lovers a fine-dining experience at Agnews, where a creative menu features delicacies such as jumbo frog legs, ribeye steak with baked potatoes, and other Southern favorites. Baldwyn Medical Clinic stays on hand to treat routine senior diseases and conditions, while the average home value here is $145,632.

Retirement In Mississippi

The best affordable towns to retire in Mississippi are a new lease of life for seniors who crave an escape from the constant city bustle. These communities blend lower living costs, welcoming neighborhoods, and access to healthcare, recreation, and culture. Retirees gain peace without sacrificing convenience, staying close to family and medical centers. With mild winters, diverse dining options, and active lifestyles, each town fosters comfort, independence, and connection, making retirement a rewarding, secure, and financially sustainable experience.