The South

When one thinks of living in the South, Florida and the Carolinas are usually the first places that come to mind. However, don’t discount their nearby neighbors Alabama and Mississippi, both of which have plenty of Southern hospitality to go around. For those seeking thrills further afield, Arkansas and Texas offer excellent jumping off points for the next adventure. Not to mention, it’s generally less expensive to live in this region — just make sure to invest in a good air conditioner with all the money you’ll save. The South is anything but slow-moving, with both large and small cities steeped in American history, exciting economic prospects, and deep cultural, musical, and culinary traditions.

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MISSISSIPPI Music to My Ears

For good music and even better food, the Magnolia State is where it’s at. The Mississippi Delta is the birthplace of blues, which has heavily influenced jazz, rock, and country music. Jackson, the state capital, boasts an impressive live music scene and a handful of high-quality museums. For added fun, drive or bike along the 444 mile-long Natchez Trace Parkway or escape to Bay St. Louis, an eclectic beach town on the “Secret Coast.” The suburbs of Flowood, Ridgeland, and Madison are particularly attractive places to live. They’re all within 25 minutes of Jackson’s downtown but allow residents to enjoy small town life. Madison is regularly ranked as having one of the best school systems in the state, as well as the best community to retire to in the area.

With the lowest cost of living in the United States, median home values hovering around $120,000, and the highest income tax capped at 5% for individuals and couples making over $10,000, life is good in Mississippi.

ARKANSAS Diamond in the Rough

The Natural State is an ideal location for those looking to get out and explore. The Ozark and Ouachita mountain ranges have created a landscape filled with dramatic bluffs, winding rivers, and dense forests ripe with raw beauty. Kayak on the Buffalo National River, delve into the Blanchard Springs Caverns, or take in the sweeping views at Hawksbill Crag or Whitaker Point.

Fayetteville, tucked in the northwest corner of the state and home to the University of Arkansas, is filled with cultural and artistic attractions and diverse culinary offerings. Little Rock, the state capital, has a small city feel and is surrounded by several very attractive suburbs.

The median home value is $127,800, and with an effective real estate tax rate of 0.62%, that’s less than $800 in annual property taxes. For 2021, the highest income tax rate is 5.90%, which applies to any income over $8,000, for both individuals and joint filers.