When it comes to the best cities to move to in Mississippi, here are our top five recommendations:
Jackson – Mississippi’s capital and largest city with approximately 150,000 residents offers the state’s most diverse economy, anchored by the University of Mississippi Medical Center, state government employment, and a growing tech sector. The metro area spans multiple communities including upscale Ridgeland and Madison, known for excellent schools and master-planned neighborhoods. California transplants appreciate Jackson’s cultural amenities including the Mississippi Museum of Art, Fondren District’s eclectic dining scene, and significantly lower housing costs with nice suburban homes available for $250,000-$350,000. Visit jacksonms.gov for city services and information.
Gulfport – This Gulf Coast city of about 72,000 residents combines beach living with economic opportunity, home to the Port of Gulfport (a major economic driver), the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, and numerous casino resorts that provide thousands of jobs. The coastal location offers year-round outdoor recreation, seafood culture, and a laid-back atmosphere that appeals to California residents seeking waterfront living at a fraction of West Coast prices. Homes near the beach start around $200,000, with newer construction in the $300,000-$400,000 range offering gulf views that would cost millions in California. Check out gulfport-ms.gov for relocation details.
Southaven – Located in DeSoto County just south of Memphis, Tennessee, this city of approximately 55,000 has become Mississippi’s third-largest city and fastest-growing community. Southaven attracts families and young professionals with excellent schools, modern retail including Tanger Outlets, and easy access to Memphis’s international airport and job market while maintaining Mississippi’s lower cost of living and tax advantages. The bedroom community feel combined with new construction neighborhoods offers turnkey homes in the $250,000-$350,000 range. Learn more at southaven.org.
Biloxi – With around 49,000 residents, Biloxi blends historic charm with modern Gulf Coast living, famous for its casino resort corridor, Keesler Air Force Base (a major employer), and seafood industry. The city’s cultural heritage includes stunning antebellum homes, maritime museums, and a revitalized downtown. California retirees and remote workers particularly appreciate the beachfront lifestyle, mild winters, and housing options ranging from affordable condos starting around $150,000 to upscale waterfront properties under $500,000. Visit biloxi.ms.us for city resources.
Hattiesburg – Home to approximately 48,000 residents and the University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg offers a vibrant college-town atmosphere in south-central Mississippi. The city’s economy balances education, healthcare with three major medical centers, and manufacturing. California families appreciate the affordable housing market with median prices around $180,000-$220,000, excellent public schools in the Hattiesburg and Oak Grove districts, and a genuine sense of community. The Longleaf Trace biking trail and nearby De Soto National Forest provide outdoor recreation opportunities. Explore hattiesburgms.com for more information.
These cities offer Southern charm and hospitality with robust job markets and significantly lower living costs for West Coast transplants, making Mississippi an increasingly attractive relocation destination for California residents seeking financial freedom and quality of life.