News Summary
Madison has been recognized as the best place to live in Mississippi by Niche, thanks to its high living standards, low crime rates, and excellent schools. The city received an overall A+ rating, highlighting its family-friendly environment and job opportunities. With a median home value of $334,700 and financial incentives for retirees, Madison is an appealing choice for families and individuals alike. Despite some lower scores in nightlife and commuting, Madison remains a top choice for quality living in the state.
Madison Named Best Place to Live in Mississippi
Madison has earned the title of the best place to live in Mississippi, according to recent rankings from Niche, a platform that assesses neighborhoods and towns across the United States. The ranking is based on an analysis of various data sources, including FBI crime statistics and U.S. Census Bureau data. With a population of approximately 27,775, Madison has been recognized for its exceptional quality of life, making it a desirable location for families and individuals alike.
Key Rankings and Ratings
Niche awarded Madison an overall grade of A+ for quality of life, indicating a high level of satisfaction among its residents. The community is particularly noted for its family-friendliness and job opportunities, both receiving an A+ rating. The public schools in Madison also received an impressive A+, highlighting the educational benefits available to families living in the area. Additionally, the city scored an A in housing and health & fitness categories, a B+ in outdoor activities and weather, and a B in cost of living.
However, Madison’s nightlife and commuting grades were less stellar, with a B- in nightlife and a C+ for commuting, suggesting that while the town excels in many areas, it may not offer extensive options for evening entertainment or easy access to commuting routes.
Housing Market Overview
The average home value in Madison is approximately $334,700, which is higher than the national average of $303,400. The median home listing price stands at around $484,700, and approximately 93% of residents are homeowners. The median rent is about $1,798, aligning closely with the national average, indicating a market that caters to both homeowners and renters.
Crime and Safety
Madison is recognized as the safest city in Mississippi, with only about 7 crimes per 1,000 people. This low crime rate is attributed to the presence of active neighborhood watch groups and a well-funded policing system. Crime statistics in Madison are significantly lower than national averages, contributing to the community’s appeal as a safe environment for families and retirees alike.
Community and Lifestyle
Residents of Madison enjoy a rural feel, promoting close-knit community relationships. The majority of residents tend to lean conservative, contributing to the town’s distinct cultural atmosphere. The community offers accessible amenities, including restaurants, schools, and entertainment options, enhancing the overall living experience.
Financial Benefits for Retirees
Madison is also a participant in the Mississippi Hometown Retirement Program, which provides financial benefits for retirees. Notable advantages include no state income tax on retirement income, no state gift or inheritance taxes, and tax exemptions for the first $75,000 of a home’s true value. This makes Madison an attractive choice for retirees looking to settle in a favorable financial environment.
Other Notable Rankings in Mississippi
According to Niche, several other cities in Mississippi also received high marks, underscoring the state’s reputation for offering safe, affordable, and family-oriented living options. Highlights include several suburbs of Jackson, which share similar traits with Madison, positioning them as desirable places to live.
Conclusion
With its combination of safety, excellent schools, and community-focused lifestyle, Madison stands out as Mississippi’s top place to live. The town’s thriving real estate market, low crime rates, and financial incentives for retirees contribute to its appeal, making it a significant option for those seeking a quality living experience in the state.
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Additional Resources
- Clarion Ledger: Niche Picks Best Places to Live in Mississippi
- Wikipedia: Mississippi
- Norada Real Estate: Best Places to Live in Mississippi for Families
- Google Search: Best places to live in Mississippi
- CNN: Clarkdale, Mississippi – Best Towns in America
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mississippi
- Redfin: Pros and Cons of Living in Mississippi
- Google News: Mississippi best places to live

Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.


