Known as the “City of Soul” Jackson, Mississippi, the state capital, is rooted in history even before the Civil War. Situated on the Pearl River that empties into the Gulf of Mexico there are many beautiful recreational spots and backwater areas. Jackson was named one of the top 10 friendliest cities in the US in 2013 for its great people, food and green and pretty public places. Mississippi has been the birthplace of many famous musicians and entertainers. Academy Award winning Actor Morgan Freeman, and singers Jimmy Buffet and Britney Spears are all natives of Mississippi with scores of others. While there aren't any current major league sports, they do have triple AAA baseball and Rugby. Three interstates 50, 55 and 220 and three US Highways 49, 50 and 80 intersect the city providing easy access for travel and tourism. Jackson-Evers Airport, named for Medgar Evers services the area for travelers. It is home to many colleges and universities, and great schools for children, promoting a family friendly environment. With more than 100 neighborhoods to choose from, here are some of the best.
West of the Pearl River and Lefleur's Bluff State Park from I-55, Greater Belhaven is home to the University of Mississippi Medical School. Millsaps College and Belhaven University. US 51 provides easy travel throughout the area. With wealthy mansions, bungalows and cottages there is an eclectic range of housing options. Many doctors, business executive, attorneys and university professionals make their homes here. The Belhaven Historic District claims 1,306 structures on the National Register. The English Village, Tudor Style shopping center provides a variety of choices for residents as does the Greater Belhaven Market on High Street every Saturday. Median home prices start at $148,000 with rents around $700 and up. Incomes average more than $43,000. Monte's Steak and Seafood, recently relocated to East Frontage Road off I-55 is popular for Cajun and Creole cuisine and Sam's Lounge near Galaxie Drive is a local favorite 'cool' hangout.
Sitting East of I-55 is Lake Trace considered to be of the highest rated neighborhoods in Jackson. Single family homes and apartments and condos provide housing options. The Northpark Mall and the Walmart Shopping Center provide choices for shoppers. Purple Creek runs through the subdivision of Wildwood North. Marguerita's Mexican Food on E. County Line Road serves great fajitas and other favorites for family dining at reasonable prices. Also on E. County Line Road is Burgers and Blues for drinks and live music in a family atmosphere. Median Incomes of $75, 000 and home prices $165,000 for 3 bedroom, 2 bath and 4+ bedrooms in the $200,000 range. Just pick the area suited to your needs and family. There are good public schools and even the Mississippi School for the Blind in Lake Trace. Bienville National Forest off US 20 is great for hiking and outdoor sports and activities.
Right on I 55 and home to Jackson Academy Raider Park and the Jackson Academy Prepartory School, Rolling Wood Beautiful is just that and great for families. Apartments and single family homes from $176,000 and rents at $730 and above are median. Larger 4 and 5 bedroom homes are in price ranges $200,000 or more. Babalu's Tacos and Tapas on Duling Avenue has great food, drink and atmosphere with an outdoor patio and fair prices. You might want to stay for Social Hour. The southern hospitality, good manners and traditional family values call families to Mississippi. With outstanding history, culture, diversity and inclusiveness you and your family will thrive and take advantage of the southern charm. Be sure to check the local calendar of events for what is going on like the Moonlight Farmer's Market on High Street, benefitting the Mississippi Food Network or Sante South Wine Festival in April supporting the Alzheimer's Association. Let your soul breathe in Jackson.