Mississippi is where Southern charm meets peace of mind. If you want to know about crime levels in Mississippi, just ask anyone who lives in the Magnolia State. They’ll tell you they feel safe enough to sleep with both eyes shut.
Mississippi falls within the top half of crime rates among the rank states at #25. It’s a state that relishes higher education with top-tier schools like the University of Mississippi and Mississippi State University. The population is rather sparse — a little shy of 3 million — so there’s a lot of elbow room for future residents who want a new home, and the state is one of the most affordable in the country.
When most people think of Mississippi, images of soulful blues music, rich history, and warm Southern hospitality come to mind. But beyond its cultural depth and natural beauty, the Magnolia State is also home to a number of communities that prioritize safety and quality of life.
Whether you're considering a move, planning a visit, or simply curious, exploring the safest cities in Mississippi reveals hidden gems where neighbors know each other by name and crime rates stay low. In this article, we take a closer look at the towns and small cities that stand out for their commitment to safety—and what makes them such inviting places to call home.
The "Safest Cities" series evaluates and ranks the safest cities in each U.S. state using crime data from the FBI and state databases. Our analysis considers population size, violent and nonviolent crime rates, the most common crime, and comparisons to national and state averages. Violent crimes include homicide, assault, robbery, and sexual assault, while nonviolent crimes encompass burglary, theft, and vehicle-related offenses. Each city’s safety score is weighted, emphasizing violent crimes. Data inconsistencies and reporting variations are acknowledged as limitations. This analysis aims to help individuals and families make informed decisions about where to live.
The Top 10 Safest Cities in Mississippi
1. Petal
Population: 11,403
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 6
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 43
Most Common Crime: Property
With a name like Petal, it must be a safe town — and it is. Residents are delighted that the crime rate has plummeted nearly 30 percent in recent years. The Leaf River flows alongside the city, carving its way through 242 acres that’s been dubbed a hunter’s paradise. Petal is eight minutes from Hattiesburg, home to the University of Southern Mississippi.
Petal's school district is considered to be one of the best in the state. Locals give a high percent satisfaction rate in the areas of safety, serenity and family friendliness. Families from the entire age spectrum live in Petal, from those just starting out to those enjoying their retirement years.
Your new home in Petal is waiting for you.
2. Madison
Population: 27,987
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 12
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 172
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
Only 10 minutes from Jackson, the town of Madison offers residents plenty of southern charm without all the city traffic congestion. There's plenty of beauty and exploration including the Simmons Arboretum with trails, bridges and an overlook. Don't miss Strawberry Patch Park or the Pearl River Wildlife Management Area for outdoor fun.
Interested in buying a brand-new home? You’re in luck, as there is ongoing new home construction. The median home price is $415,000. Families with school-age children will be thrilled to learn that the student-teacher ratio is an astonishingly low 14 to 1.
Check out new homes in Madison.
3. Clinton
Population: 26,698
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 29
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 325
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
Clinton is an affordable place to put down roots as it’s 4 percent less expensive than the U.S. average with utilities and transportation rating lower. And when it comes to safety, you can rest assured that Clinton is an ideal choice; its crime rate is one of its draws for potential residents.
Clinton residents relish the small-town feel and boast about living within walking distance to grocery stores and other amenities. It's home to Mississippi College, the oldest four-year college in the state. With great history and outdoor recreation, Clinton appeals to your senses. It's also a popular retirement destination.
4. Brandon
Population: 25,719
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 22
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 89
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
Crime rates are low in Brandon, making it one of the state’s safest cities. Brandon, located close to the capital, is a family-friendly town. Homes are priced right, with a median value of $270,000, but take note that they are appreciating at a steady clip.
There is beautiful countryside and just the right amount of amenities. From the McClain Safari to the Brandon Amphitheater, there's something to pique your interest.
5. Pass Christian
Population: 6,255
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 0
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 121
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
This Gulf Coast city, also known as The Pass, has plenty of inviting homes available. Pass Christian homes are increasing with a median home value of $419,400. And year over year, the crime rate is taking a nosedive.
Another bonus is that this family-friendly town has a great educational system; the school system in this area rates as A+. On its list of Best Places to Raise a Family in Mississippi, Niche has ranked Pass Christian as #7 of 117. Enjoy Southern hospital in a great coastal location. There are plenty of communities to get to know in Pass Christian.
6. Horn Lake
Population: 26,468
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 22
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 528
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
You get best of both worlds when you choose to reside in Horn Lake, as it’s a suburb of Memphis, Tennessee. Many residents live here and make the 24-minute commute to Memphis to work. Families appreciate the schools in this sparse suburban area. It's also a great spot for young professionals and retirees.
Residents are quite proud of the community and have created a Keep Horn Lake Beautiful committee. One ordinance requires that every lot, residential or commercial, must have 20 percent allotted to green space. Another incentive to making Horn Lake your new address is that the median home price is $158,900. Plenty of hospitals and medical facilities are nearby, so those needing medical care will not need to travel far.
Find your new home in Horn Lake.
7. Oxford
Population: 27,008
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 39
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 478
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
Oxford residents have it all: arts, sports, culture, low cost of living and a charming quality of life. Dubbed the “Cultural Mecca of the South,” Oxford is rich in history and offers outstanding culinary experiences. The town’s vibrant literary community boasts that it had a part in the development of several authors, including the legendary William Faulkner.
Oxford is home to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), and footfall fans gather at The Grove, the popular tailgating spot, prior to home games. Oxford offers a choice of new or older homes, but don’t wait too long to sign on the dotted line if you want a new one. The outstanding schools, safe environment, and diversity make this an alluring Mississippi locale.
Discover new homes in Oxford today.
8. Starkville
Population: 25,444
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 17
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 584
Most Common Crime: Property
Starkville is a marquee American college town, as home to Mississippi State University. MSU is the largest university in the state and is responsible for many arts and entertainment events. If culture is your style, consider having those new address labels printed. Not only does Starkville appeal to college students, but many young professionals, families, and retirees choose this welcoming locale.
The median price for a home is $265,900 with ample of new home communities ready to provide all the latest trends and amenities. A bit of trivia: Prior to the Revolutionary War, the Starkville area was inhabited by the Choccuma tribe.
9. Byram
Population: 12,651
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes 13
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 196
Most Common Crime: Property
A suburb of nearby Jackson, Byram has an unemployment rate lower than the national average, while the high school graduation average is tilted higher. Byram also boasts a lower cost of living along with its safety record.
This small town has an affordable housing market with the median home listed at around $177,000. Many residents enjoy living off the beaten path of Jackson. They can own a home in a peaceful community but still live close enough to the state’s capital to take in shows, restaurants and a host of family-oriented activities.
You can also trek across the historic Byram Swinging Bridge, a suspension bridge spanning the Pearl River. You’ll break in a new pair of walking shoes in no time.
10. Booneville
Population: 9,081
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 30
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 345
Most Common Crime: Property
Welcome to the “City of Hospitality,” where the locals can’t wait to greet you with a “howdy” and a glass of sweet tea from a mason jar. Sipping on your brisk tea, you can stroll along streets in historic downtown Booneville; it is lined with buildings dating back to the 1900s.
With an A+ public school system, it’s earned a reputation for being a friendly, livable town. Northeast Mississippi Community College, located in the heart of Booneville, gives this town a youthful appeal. From pumpkin patches to parks, you can always enjoy the outdoors in Booneville.
All data are taken from FBI U.S. crime statistics.
Other Mississippi Resources
How to Build a New Home in Mississippi
10 Best State Parks in Mississippi
Best Tiny Home Builders in Mississippi
10 Most Affordable Cities in Mississippi
Your Guide to Closing Costs in Mississippi
The 10 Best Places to Retire in Mississippi
Heather Allen
Heather Allen is a freelance writer who began her career 20 years ago at a small Texas NBC affiliate, while attending SFASU. She’s written blogs on a diverse range of topics.