Vicksburg, Mississippi
What It Is Like to Retire in Vicksburg
Vicksburg, Mississippi could very well become one of the "hot" retirement communities in the years to come. This small town of just over 25,000 is located on bluffs overlooking the Yazoo and Mississippi Rivers. It has old southern charm with squares, tree-lined streets, riverfront casinos, and the Vicksburg National Military Park. The park commemorates General U.S. Grant's successful siege of Vicksburg in 1863, one of the Civil War's most decisive battles.
Vicksburg is a town in transition. Armed with a new mayor and many enterprising local citizens, it has begun a massive renewal campaign focused on Washington Street. This old street facing the river had featured boarded up shops until just 3 years ago, today it is filled with bustling coffee shops, Lorelei Books, the Warehouse luxury hotel, and many boutiques. The project is still not finished, but piped in jazz and period street lamps give the street a wonderful feel. The U.S. Corps of Engineers is beginning work on a huge riverboat museum at the end of Washington Street. Tourists come here for the casinos, civil war tours, and tours of the many old mansions including the historic McRaven home.
Mississippi has a certified retirement community program and Vicksburg has been selected for that honor. The State has gone out of its way to welcome retirees with low taxes and other programs aimed at this important segment.
Where to Retire in Vicksburg and Home Prices
Living choices at this time are somewhat limited. There are many lovely homes near the river that either could be or have been restored. Prices are astonishingly low by coastal standards. There are also active adult communities in the surrounding area that many might find appealing. Zillow reported that the median home value in Vicksburg was $128,502, in early 2020. The cost of living is very low, as are property taxes (average just over $500).
What Is Special about Vicksburg
Unique place in civil war history. Huge National Military Park. Many beautiful homes to tour (or purchase!). Low prices and low taxes. Friendly people. Casinos. Old Court House Museum. New Army Corps of Engineers Interpretive Museum. Washington Street ambience. Tree-lined streets and squares. The potential that Vicksburg could take off and be a great real estate investment.
What Is Not Special about Vicksburg
Vicksburg has been economically depressed a long time and still has a way to go. Hot summers. High crime and unemploymentl
Who Will Like Retirement in Vicksburg
Anyone looking for a small town with historic ambiance, racial diversity, and plenty to do will like it here. People willing to take a chance will probably be greatly rewarded if the city becomes a popular retirement destination.
Local Economy Is Driven by
Tourism, construction, health care. Viking Ranges has a large manufacturing plant near town.
Climate and Physical Environment
The average January temperature is in the high 40s and the average July temp in the low 80s. Vicksburg is between the Yazoo and Mississippi rivers west of Jackson.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
Washington Street has a bookstore, as well as many galleries and boutiques. The 4 casinos in Vicksburg have a great deal of entertainment. Jackson, with several colleges and universities, is just 45 miles away. The Vicksburg Art Association. H.C. Porter is just one of the renowned artists in the area. In 2002 the Vicksburg Riverfront murals program was begun by Louisiana mural artist Robert Dafford and his team on the floodwall located on the waterfront in the downtown.
Crime
The crime rate is about 2 times the national average.
Medical facilities
River Region Medical Center is at 2100 Hgway 61 N
Transportation
Jackson Airport is a conveniently sized facility just 45 miles away
Valuable Links
Wikipedia on Vicksburg Vicksburg City-Data More community reviews at Topretirements Visit Vicksburg Mini-guide to retirement in Mississippi
Comments on "Vicksburg"