
2. Gulfport, Mississippi
If you want genuine Gulf Coast living with some of the lowest housing costs in the nation, Gulfport deserves your attention. Located halfway between New Orleans and Mobile, this coastal city offers 26 miles of uninterrupted man-made beach. The warm, shallow waters of the Mississippi Sound provide a gentle environment for kayaking, fishing, and boating.
Mississippi is incredibly friendly to retirees from a tax perspective. The state exempts all qualified retirement income from state income tax, including Social Security benefits, public and private pensions, and withdrawals from IRAs and 401(k)s. This tax structure allows a fixed income to stretch remarkably far.
Gulfport balances a relaxed beach town vibe with adequate entertainment. The local casino industry brings in excellent dining, shows, and amenities that benefit residents year-round. Medical care is easily accessible through the Memorial Hospital system, ensuring you do not have to drive hours for routine specialist visits.

I JOINED USA NAVY IN 1964 TO AVOID THE ARMY DRAFT.
I ATTENDED ELECTRICIAN SCHOOL AND WENT TO AN
AIRCRAFT CARRIER IN SAN DIEGO. WE MADE 2 TRIPS TO
VIET NAM. OUR SHIP HAD 3,500 MEN ABORD; I WAS PROMOTED
TO E-4 ELECTRICIANS MATE. I DO NOT REGRET ANY DECIONS
THAT I MADE IN MY LIFE. MY WIFE AND I ARE MARRIED 50
YEARS NOW. PRAISE THE LORD JESUS CHRIST. I AM SURE
THAT EVERYONE AGREES…AMEN.
TICONDEROGA CVA-14