Why Families and Retirees Are Relocating to the Gulf Coast

By Bryan David

Bryan David is one of the best REALTORS® serving Ocean Springs, Biloxi, Gulfport and the entire coast. He is a Biloxi native, military veteran and retiree, and a multi-year top-producing agent with hundreds of satisfied clients.

Most people think of beaches and casinos when they picture the Mississippi Gulf Coast, but there’s so much more drawing people here. In fact, relocation interest has been steadily growing for years, and now, national rankings are catching up to what locals already know: that Mississippi is one of the best places to live, work, and retire.

A rising star in national rankings. In 2025, Kiplinger Personal Finance ranked Mississippi as the number one state for retiree tax advantages. U.S. News & World Report also listed it among the top ten for relocation interest. These national spotlights brought new attention, but locals will tell you the coast has been attracting newcomers long before the headlines.

Expanding job opportunities. The Gulf Coast economy is booming. Major employers, such as Ingalls Shipbuilding, Chevron, and Stennis Space Center, continue to expand, securing billions in contracts and creating new positions. Gulfport’s expansion projects, combined with the region’s robust tourism and casino industries, continue to generate opportunities across multiple sectors.

A haven for military and veterans. With Keesler Air Force Base and the Naval Construction Battalion Center, the Gulf Coast has long served as a hub for active-duty and retired military personnel. Mississippi’s tax advantages make it even more appealing; military retirement pay isn’t taxed, and 100% service-disabled veterans pay zero property tax.

Affordability that turns heads. Compared to markets in the north or west, the Mississippi Gulf Coast offers incredible value. Homes here often cost half (or even a third) of what you’d pay elsewhere. Utilities, groceries, and insurance are all more affordable, allowing families to stretch their income further without sacrificing their quality of life.

Southern hospitality and lifestyle. The “hospitality state” isn’t just a slogan, but it’s a way of life. Residents often comment on how friendly people are, whether it’s a smile in a grocery store or a neighbor offering to lend a hand. Combine that with great food, outdoor recreation, and mild winters, and it’s easy to see why so many are staying for good.

If you’ve been thinking about making a move, the Mississippi Gulf Coast offers one of the most balanced lifestyles in the country, where affordability, opportunity, and community come together.

To learn more or talk about buying or selling, call Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Expect Realty at 228-215-1861, email bhgre@expectrealty.com, or visit expectrealty.com. Discover why so many people are choosing to call the Gulf Coast home and see what makes living here truly exceptional.