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Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Delta,” Yazoo City is a 50-minute drive away from the hustle and bustle of Jackson and its pricey suburbs. In exchange for the extra distance, you’ll find a vibrant Main Street lined with shops and restaurants, an expansive wildlife refuge, and lower rent and housing prices.

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Less than 30 miles from the Arkansas border, and in the heart of the Delta, sits Greenville. Move to this city of almost 28,000 and prepare to stay busy with outdoor activities, music festivals, and entertainment at the two local casinos. And good news for those on a budget: Rent and home prices here are below the state’s average.

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people. Though it’s a day trip to Jackson, Birmingham, New Orleans, and Memphis, this mid-sized city offers lots of reasons to stay in town. The 3,300-acre Bonita Lakes Park provides opportunities for fishing, hiking, and horseback riding, and restaurants, boutiques, and music venues line the vibrant downtown area.

If you’re starting your home search and want to learn what type of home mortgage loan you might qualify for, consider weighing the pros and cons between mortgage prequalification vs. preapproval.

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Nicknamed “The Friendly City,” Petal has many qualities parents often seek, including well-rated public schools. Many of the households here have children, which could make finding playmates that much easier. There are also several city parks and playgrounds where kids can burn off steam, and sporting and cultural events to enjoy in neighboring Hattiesburg.

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This mid-size suburb of 25,000 is a 15-minute drive from Jackson, which makes it a popular choice for parents who work in the capital city and want a short commute home. Parents may also be drawn here by the schools and the fact that Brandon students often earn higher-than-average scores on standardized tests.

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Tucked away a mere 30 minutes south of Memphis, Olive Branch is an upscale, family-friendly community with growing job opportunities. Its schools, some of which are among the highest-ranking in the area, are also a draw for families.

When you’re ready to start shopping for a home, consider visiting a home loan help center to learn more about mortgage options.

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Upscale shopping? Vibrant nightlife? Easily accessible parks, bike paths, and trails? Close to a major city? When it comes to the amenities young adults want, Ridgeland checks the boxes. It also helps that this suburb of Jackson is on the younger side — the median age is 35.5.

It’s easy to see why Flowood is one of the fastest-growing cities in Mississippi — and a smart choice for young professionals who want a little more space than they’d get in nearby Jackson. The median age of residents is 35.4, and many workers are employed in white-collar positions, reflected in the higher median household income. River Oaks Hospital and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi are among the top employers in town, or you could decide to make the 15-minute commute to Jackson for work.

If home values are rising where you plan to buy, applying for a jumbo mortgage loan is one strategy to consider.

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Whether you’re driving in from New Orleans or Mobile, Alabama, it’s nearly impossible to miss the signs for Biloxi. Or, more specifically, the signs for the casinos lining the city’s beachfront. In addition to gaming, restaurants, and entertainment, these establishments bring jobs (as does the other major employer in town, Keesler Air Force Base). When the workday is done, you can take in live music, enjoy fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood, or unwind with a peaceful stroll along the beach.

Located an hour’s drive from New Orleans, and a few minutes away from the beach, Diamondhead offers residents a slower pace of life and easy access to modern conveniences. More than a quarter of its population is 65 or older, and many of the town’s amenities cater to retirees. This includes golf courses, a public pool, and a senior center.

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Tupelo isn’t just the birthplace of Elvis Presley, it’s also a certified retirement community. This is no doubt welcome news to the members of the population aged 65 and older, who enjoy the area’s natural beauty, warm hospitality, and health care services, including an award-winning, 750-bed hospital.

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Meridian can be another good place to retire. Spend your days wandering through its museums, discovering local artists and musicians in its Hall of Fame, or getting your steps in at one of the outdoor walking trails.

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Ancient, graceful oak trees, sparkling-clean beaches, and a vibrant downtown are what awaits you in Long Beach. The area is a favorite among anglers, though seashell and sea glass collectors will have plenty to keep them busy on shore.

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There’s magic in the air in Bay St. Louis. Maybe it’s from the wide-open beaches and gentle waves. Or the colorful art bursting from galleries and mom-and-pop restaurants. Or the fact that it’s perfectly acceptable to tool around town in a golf cart and flip flops. Whatever the reason, this gem of a town may soon no longer be one of the South’s best-kept secrets, thanks to a new train line connecting it to New Orleans and Mobile.

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On the eastern end of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Pascagoula is steeped in natural beauty and rich history. Take a marsh tour and get up close and personal with the Pascagoula River. This natural estuary is home to various critters, including several endangered species, and more than 300 species of plants. Or take a step back in time by visiting the Round Island Lighthouse or the LaPointe-Krebs House and Museum (it’s the oldest structure in the state).

Grafton is arguably one of the best places to live in North Dakota from a cost perspective. There’s always something fun to do here year-round, whether it’s ice skating at the local rinks in winter or hiking the scenic trails of Icelandic State Park in the spring and summer. The low price-to-income ratio could be considered the sweet spot for people who are looking to buy on a budget.

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Jamestown sits approximately halfway between Fargo and Bismarck, both of which are roughly a 90-minute drive in either direction. One of the things Jamestown is notable for, aside from being one of the most affordable cities in North Dakota, is its love of the buffalo. Here, you’ll find both the National Buffalo Museum and the World’s Largest Buffalo.

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Valley City is about an hour’s drive from Fargo, which could make it appealing for people who don’t mind a longer commute. The cost of living is much less than the national average, and while the city is small, it doesn’t lack any of the basic amenities you’d expect to find. There are more than 30 parks in the city, including Medicine Wheel Park, which could be perfect if you like enjoying the fresh air.

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West Fargo is a suburb of Fargo and quite a few families live here, along with young professionals and retirees. Some of the best things about raising kids here include convenient access to education and the many different options you have for dining, shopping, and recreation. The Red River Zoo and Bonanzaville (a museum and village on the outskirts of West Fargo) are just two of the top attractions you might want to explore in the Fargo area.

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Ellendale is about two-and-a-half hours by car from the state capital, Bismarck, and it could be suited to families who are interested in smaller-town living. Given its size, there aren’t quite as many amenities here as there are in other North Dakota cities on this list. But you might not mind if you’re looking for a quieter place to call home.

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Horace is a smaller suburb of Fargo, and it’s only a 20-minute drive into the city, which could make it a good choice for planning a day trip with the kids or commuting to work. You’ll pay a little more to rent a home here, but overall the cost of living is still below the national average. Families appreciate the quality of the local school system and the close-knit feel.

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Fargo is the largest city in the Peace Garden State, and it’s a magnet for job-seekers as well as young adults who are interested in getting an education at North Dakota State University. The population has a median age of around 31, and most residents are single, childless, and hold at least one college degree. When you’re looking for something to do, you’ve got your choice of parks, local cafes and restaurants, shopping, and historical sites. You might assume renting or buying in Fargo would be expensive because it is one of the state’s larger cities, but that isn’t the case.

Westgate is a neighborhood in Fargo where you’ll find plenty of younger professionals. The median age is 33 years old, and there are a significant number of childless singles, with a fairly even split between men and women. Nearly half of the population is college-educated, and most people work for private companies in white-collar jobs. On average, homeowners pay more for property taxes here, but you won’t need a jumbo mortgage loan to buy a property.

Osgood is one of Fargo’s newest suburban neighborhoods, with a small but rapidly growing population. The area is mostly populated by younger professionals, many of whom work for private companies and earn a higher median household income. In terms of housing, there’s a fairly even split between renters and homeowners here. North Dakota offers a first-time homebuyer program, which is a great incentive to consider owning a property versus renting one.

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Minot is a larger city of almost 50,000 residents, and it has some great things to offer retirees. For example, if you’re interested in going back to school, you might enroll in classes at Minot State University. Or if you want to get out and see the sights, you can visit one of the many museums or cultural attractions in the area. And there are plenty of doctors to choose from when you need routine or specialty care.

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Grand Forks lies about an hour north of Fargo, and it’s just next door to Grand Forks Air Force Base. The city has a relaxed feel, and even though it’s a larger metro area, there are plenty of spaces to enjoy the outdoors and breathe the fresh air. The University of North Dakota is located here if you’re interested in going to school in retirement, and there are a number of doctors in the area specializing in geriatric medicine.

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Bismarck sits adjacent to the Missouri River, and it’s one of North Dakota’s largest cities by population. The median age of residents is a bit younger, but there are plenty of retirees living in the city and its surrounding suburbs. Bismarck is known for its excellent health care system, which might be a mark in its favor for retirees with chronic or serious medical issues. There’s no shortage of things to do and see either. The local housing market shows a median list price in early 2025 of around $418,000.

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Williston is tucked away in the northwest corner of the state, not far from the Montana border. The area is suited for lots of outdoor activities, including bird watching, fishing, and even hunting if you’re so inclined. If you’re interested in getting on the water, you can go kayaking, paddleboarding, or canoeing at Lewis & Clark State Park.

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Dickinson is next door to Theodore Roosevelt State Park and the Dakota Prairie Grasslands, where you’ll find some of the most impressive views around. There are trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, along with opportunities for fishing, hunting, and canoeing. If you’re interested in whitewater rafting and don’t mind a drive, you can do that in nearby Bismarck.

Walhalla lies along the Canadian border, and it’s the northernmost city to be featured on our list. One of the major attractions in the area is the Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area, which is a top destination for hiking, ATV riding, kayaking, and horseback riding. In winter, you can head to Frost Fire Park for skiing and snowboarding. A home affordability calculator can give you a better idea of what you can realistically spend if you’re hoping to buy.

If you have a big-city job and a small budget, consider driving 25 minutes north to the Baton Rouge suburb of Zachary. No stranger to best-of lists, this small, friendly town boasts well-kept parks and a calendar full of events, including festivals and the weekly farmers’ market. Parents may appreciate the fact that the schools receive high marks.

Jennings is conveniently located on Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 90, midway between Lafayette and Lake Charles. This charming small town has a decidedly French feel, thanks to Cajun roots that influence everything from the local restaurants to music venues and festivals. Jennings is also known as the “Cradle of Louisiana Oil,” since it’s home to the state’s first oil well, and the oil and gas industry still plays a major role in the local economy today.

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You’d be hard-pressed to find a more affordable place in Louisiana than Bastrop. But don’t worry, the low cost of living doesn’t require sacrificing a high quality of life. In fact, this northeast town is known for its stunning architecture, abundance of outdoor activities, and easy way of life.

Want to raise your crew away from the hustle and bustle of Baton Rouge? Consider Zachary. Located a short 25-minute drive from the capital city, this small town boasts well-maintained community parks and playgrounds. Parents may be drawn to its top-performing schools.

As you start shopping for a home, what goes into qualifying for a home loan can be confusing. Help take out some of the mystery surrounding the process by reading up on tips to qualify for a mortgage.

Families in Jennings don’t have to go far to find things to do — the town is full of kid-friendly activities. The playgrounds, walking track, and 10-acre fishing pond of the Louisiana Oil and Gas Park are popular attractions. On chilly or rainy days, you can take your crew to visit the baby alligators at Gator Chateau, soak in the world-class art collection in the Zigler Museum, or catch a live country music variety show at the Strand Theatre.

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Far from New Orleans in both location and culture, Shreveport’s culture, food, and street names reflect its close proximity to Arkansas and Texas. While Little Rock and Dallas make for good day trips, you’d be forgiven for not wanting to leave this vibrant city. Known for its jazz and blues scene, diverse dining options, and important historical sites, Shreveport offers more than enough to keep families of all ages entertained.

Maybe you want to be within easy driving distance of New Orleans, but far enough away to get more space and cheaper housing. If so, Elmwood might be the place for you.

When you’re ready to get serious about home buying, a good place to start is learning about the different types of mortgage loans to make sure you get the one that fits your needs.

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There was a time when Metairie was where city dwellers moved as they got older and started a family. But these days, the sprawling New Orleans suburb is attracting younger residents right off the bat with noteworthy restaurants, a revitalized lakefront area, and a convenient location.

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When most people picture the graceful oaks, spicy food, and upbeat music of Cajun Country, Lafayette often comes to mind. But this unique city isn’t just the stuff of travel books, it’s also a good place for young adults to call home. The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is in the center of town, and graduates often decide to stay and work here. Not surprisingly, Lafayette residents are on the younger side — the median age is 37.3 — and three quarters of households don’t have children.

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Retiring doesn’t have to mean slowing down, especially if you decide to settle in Bastrop. This bucolic town is known for its outdoor adventures, thanks to its proximity to the Upper Ouachita National Wildlife Refuge and the Georgia Pacific Wildlife Management Center.

Retirees living in River Ridge, a bedroom community east of New Orleans, enjoy the kind of amenities found in larger towns. Community parks play host to local sporting teams, and family-owned restaurants, upscale boutiques, and grocery stores are sprinkled throughout town. The New Orleans International Airport is also within easy reach, a bonus when you’re hopping on a plane to visit friends and family.

Tucked away from New Orleans, but within 25 miles of two hospitals, Bogalusa is the kind of place where you can truly unwind. Pass an afternoon enjoying the shops, art galleries, and restaurants lining downtown. Or enjoy the best of what Mother Nature has to offer in the beautiful Bogue Chitto National Wildlife refuge.

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Mandeville’s prime location provides easy access to Lake Pontchartrain, where fishing and boating opportunities abound. When it’s time to raise the anchor and head back to shore, you can grab a bite at one of the many top-flight restaurants or take in the million-dollar views along the lakefront.

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Grab your rod and reel: Lake Charles is a well-established fishing destination, where anglers try their luck in Calcasieu Lake, Holly Beach, and (of course) Lake Charles. And because southwestern Louisiana enjoys mild winters, you can cast your line year-round. After a day on the boat or shore, take a load off at one of the many restaurants in this fast-growing city.

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Bayou Teche winds through the beautiful town of Breaux Bridge and plays host to activities and events throughout the year. If you prefer lots of outdoor action, you can get your fill of hunting, paddling, bird watching, and fishing. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, load up on the local specialty: crawfish. In fact, Breaux Bridge’s crawfish farming and cooking is so renowned, the town was officially designated the crawfish capital of the world.