Laurel, Mississippi
True Small Town Living
We guarantee it—Laurel is one of the most beautiful towns you’ve ever seen. The Central Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is the state’s largest, finest, and most intact ensemble of early 20th century architectural styles including classical and colonial revivals, Queen Anne, bungalow, and craftsman. Surrounding the hundreds of homes and buildings is incredible landscaping that was part of America’s master architect Fredrick Law Olmstead’s 1909 city plan.
Add to this the internationally recognized Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, Mississippi’s oldest art museum filled with spectacular collections; the dynamic 145-acre Sportsplex; a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities and a year-round schedule of festivals and special events, and you just begin to get the picture. Laurel is a unique combination of comfortable living and the ideal amount of Southern charm and sophistication. You’re invited to take it all in, and consider retirement in Mississippi.
Read about what people like yourself have to say about Laurel and retirement in Mississippi:
Carl and Nora Stevens moved to Laurel from one of Mississippi’s neighbor states. They are the first to say they made a brilliant decision.
Mississippi Living: How did you discover Mississippi?
The Stevens: We got to know Laurel when our son moved here to practice medicine. Moving from Louisiana was a big decision for us, but was absolutely the best one we could have made.
Mississippi Living: Besides the taxes, what do you enjoy most about Mississippi?
The Stevens: We were amazed at how warm and genuine the people are. The better we get to know the people the more our initial impression is confirmed. We’d move here all over again because of the people. The low crime rate is another reason we want to stay here. And we know first hand that excellent medical care is available!
Mississippi Living: What’s your role in the Laurel community?
The Stevens: We wanted to do something to keep busy, so we opened Daylight Donuts Shop. Laurel is very supportive of small businesses, which is another “drawing card” if you’re not ready to quit work entirely and choose to start your own business.
Facts and Figures |
| Population: | 18,540 |
| Hospital Beds: | 285 |
| Physcians: | 81 |
| Average cost of Home: | $87,000 |
| Average Cost of a New 2,000 sq. ft. Brick Home on a half-acre lot: | $170,000 |
| Tax on $100,000 Home with Homestead Exemption: | (under age 65): $1,212.90
(65 and older): $378.23
with homestead exemption
|
| Places of Worship: | 200+ |
| Denominations Represented: | 36 |
| Commercial passenger air service available locally at Pine Belt Airport (15
miles south). |