Downsize and Save Money: Retire in Biloxi!

The kids have grown up and (hopefully) moved out, and now it's just you and your spouse. Rambling around a five-bedroom homestead seems pretty pointless, especially if it involves climbing a bunch of stairs. Have you considered downsizing?

Many retirees are trading in their family-sized homes for a more manageable apartment in an affordable area. According to GulfCoast.org, every year 700,000 retirees relocate in an effort to cut the costs of living and reap the benefits of a more comfortable climate. Selling your home enables you to rent a more affordable apartment, and apartment-dwelling requires far less maintenance than homeownership. This makes everyday life more manageable and gives you more time to concentrate on the serious business of retirement.

Biloxi is Lovely

Property values in the northeast have skyrocketed, leading many retirees to move to other parts of the country that have lower cost-of-living expenses. CNN.com reported that moving to a less expensive area can save retirees up to 15 percent of their retirement income. Where to Retire magazine recently selected Biloxi, Miss., as one of the top places for retirees, due to its warm climate, low taxes and affordable living spaces. Biloxi apartments are well-designed, located near a lovely seaport and close to many exciting attractions and casinos. Editor of Where to Retire Magazine, Mary Lu Abbott, says Biloxi's low cost of living, affordable homes and low taxes, has attracted more retirees. Biloxi is a rich city that includes, luxury four-season locations and mountain/desert reserves.

Attractions in the Area

Biloxi's beaches and landmarks are wonderful places to spend the day, whether it's to retreat from the world or see something new. If jumping into the fray is more for you, there are many casinos and resort spas that feature great deals for seniors. Boomtown and Isle of Capri casinos offer special packages for golfers and spa visitors and fun things to do when the grandkids come for a visit. Make sure to bring little ones to the Boomtown Bakery & General Store for a cupcake – you can hit the slot machines while you're there, too.

Biloxi has a variety of historic places to investigate either on your own or when family is in town. Try taking them to the Biloxi Lighthouse or on a Ship Island excursion. There are guided tours that combine relaxation, recreation and history.

Old-Style Restaurants

For a traditional take on cuisine, Mary Mahoney's Old French House in Biloxi has delicious seafood. This restaurant was established in 1964 in a Colonial-Era home, and locals tout the imperial half lobster as unrivaled in its exquisiteness. McElroy's on the Bayou in Ocean Springs offers a genuine taste of the South; try the crab-stuffed jalapenos and seafood gumbo, topped off with a beignet sprinkled with powdered sugar.

Relocating in retirement can be a rejuvenating and life-affirming experience, especially when you're saving money, meeting new people and visiting new places. Plus, the gulf coast is begging you to take a walk and admire Biloxi's sunset. Maybe it's time to say hello to a new and exciting life of retirement in Biloxi.