6 Safest Small Communities To Settle In Mississippi

Mississippi has a strong appeal for Americans contemplating settling there. It has some of the United States’ lowest housing costs and a well below-average cost of living. The trade-off is the high homicide rate, second only to Washington, D.C., which makes Mississippi one of the least safe states.

However, there is a different story if we take a closer look. Statewide crime rates are heavily influenced by Jackson, where violent crime far exceeds the rest of Mississippi and skews the average. In 2020, only 6 percent of the state’s population resided in Jackson, yet more than 50 percent of all reported state homicides were committed there. Beyond Jackson, Mississippi’s small towns remain safe havens for those looking to settle.

Brandon

Brandon sits within the greater Jackson Metropolitan Area, known as a historic town with modern amenities and friendly, locally owned businesses. Its proximity to Jackson provides big-city access without the higher crime rates seen there in recent years. Brandon has consistently had lower aggravated assault rates than the state and national rates. It has also had generally low homicide rates, other than a few isolated spikes in levels.

Bobby Cleveland Park at Lakeshore offers views of the water and a variety of facilities, including a paved walking trail, pavilion, picnic benches, playground, and dog park. The Brandon Amphitheatre is a large amphitheater with a range of fixed seating, box seats, and a standing pit, which hosts concerts and community events. Burgers Blues Barbecue has a reputation for being the preferred place for friends, families, and food lovers who crave homemade food and Southern hospitality.

Petal

Petal’s proactive police force focuses on keeping residents and visitors safe. Petal’s homicide rate has stayed below state and national levels, except for one brief rise in 2024. As for aggravated assault, Petal’s rates have fallen, for the most part, below the state and national level, other than a handful of spikes in the last five years that have been higher than both.

Hinton Park offers many recreational activities, including a playground, walking track, 4 covered picnic tables available on a first-come-first-served basis, a pavilion, and restroom facilities. Sully’s is a high-quality steakhouse serving up hand-cut steaks, fresh fish, and chef’s specials. Residents can enjoy visiting attractions in nearby Hattiesburg, such as the Hattiesburg Zoo, which has rides, petting zoos, and feeding opportunities.

Madison

Madison is a suburb of Jackson known for its excellent public schools, strong economy, and programs for retirees while prioritizing safety, comfort, and a small-town atmosphere. Aggravated assault and homicide rates have remained below state and national averages for the past five years.

Simmons Arboretum features numerous walking trails and showcases native wildlife and plants that residents of Madison have enjoyed for many years. Strawberry Patch Park is more suitable for families, featuring a lighted walking trail, playground, restrooms, and a garden. The Foxtail is a Mediterranean-inspired fine dining restaurant that serves high-quality dishes and handcrafted cocktails.

Long Beach

Long Beach offers industrial, commercial, and retail options while preserving its small-town charm. It is home to a close community that values its coastal setting and laidback, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. The last homicide occurred in 2021, and aggravated assault rates have mostly stayed below state and national averages.

Long Beach Harbor features a boat launch and offers opportunities for fishing, complemented by a nearby white sand beach. Being a resort town, Long Beach is not without its many places to eat. Harbor View Café is a staple for locals and visitors alike who enjoy views of the water from the windows. Friendship Oak is a popular attraction, a 500-year-old, 50-foot-tall oak tree located on the lawn of the beachfront campus of The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Pass Christian

Pass Christian lies on the shores of the Mississippi Sound. It has, for the most part, had a very low violent crime rate. Over the past five years, Pass Christian’s violent crime rate has stayed below state and national averages, with brief spikes in 2021 and 2025.

Pass Christian War Memorial Park features a Gazebo and picnic tables with grills that make for the perfect place for a social gathering. Robin’s Nest in the Pass is a local art and gift store selling unique gifts, jewelry, local art, books, and pottery. Shaggy’s Pass Harbor is known for its fresh Gulf seafood dishes, but also burgers, sandwiches, beach drinks, cold beer, wine, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Diners are also known to enjoy the sunset while dining.

Waveland

Waveland is situated on the Gulf of Mexico and is known as the “Hospitality City”. Waveland has had no homicides in the past five years, and its assault rates have stayed at or below state and national averages since early 2022.

Buccaneer State Park is located on the beach in Waveland, comprising a 4.5-acre waterpark, a nature trail with opportunities for birding, kayaking, and crabbing, a disc golf course, and a campsite, making it suitable for people of all ages. Garfield Ladner Memorial Pier is a relaxing spot with views of the water, gazebos for shade, seating areas, and access to fishing. Dat Kitchen Too boasts a welcoming southern hospitality paired with generous portions of food.

Mississippi's Safe Havens

Finding a community that feels safe, welcoming, and offers a variety of activities can be challenging. While Mississippi’s capital may be prone to high crime rates, its smaller communities continue to thrive. These towns offer a blend of affordability, hospitality, and a relaxed pace that fosters connection and comfort. Whether you’re drawn to the coast or prefer a spot near city conveniences, Mississippi’s small towns offer the space and spirit to make life feel easy.