Aberdeen blends affordability with natural and historic beauty
There was a time when Aberdeen, located on the Tombigbee River, was Mississippi’s second largest city and one of its busiest ports. Those days are long gone, but this community of nearly 5,000 still attracts residents of all ages for its ample park system, water access and abundance of historic architecture. “I had buyers once from Ireland who purchased in Aberdeen because of the community. They used to visit their friends there and just fell in love with the town,” says Megan Gibson, a Realtor with Hometown Realty who sells throughout the Northeast Mississippi region.
Minimal Traditional and ranch-style homes dominate the market
This community is home to more than 200 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Beyond those, options here are a mix of ranch-style, manufactured and Minimal Traditional. Lot sizes are often petite, and lawns are grassy and dotted with mature trees. Most have driveways that lead to carports or garages, which means residential streets are typically clear. The median price for homes is about $260,000. Multiacre lots are also available, ranging from $36,000 to $89,000.
Public schools rated C with new aviation training for teens
Aberdeen School District serves the city and has a C rating on Niche. Kids may attend B-minus-rated Aberdeen Elementary, C-rated Belle-Shivers Middle and C-rated Aberdeen High. In March 2025, the district bought a four-seat airplane so juniors and seniors at Aberdeen High could learn flight, ground, and sim training to prepare them for a career as a pilot or mechanic.
Parks, trails and lake access offer year-round recreation
Blue Bluff Campground and Recreation Area is nearby and features fishing and swimming in Aberdeen Lake, waterfront trails, picnicking and camping. Aberdeen Marina is also a popular fishing spot. Cyclists enjoy rides along the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route, which runs through the city. The Aberdeen Golf and Country Club offers a private nine-hole course. General Young Park features a playground and recently resurfaced basketball courts that are covered to help keep players out of the sun. Newberger Park also has a playground and basketball courts.
Small-town shopping and food with hospital close to home
The city’s small downtown district features local boutiques housed in historic buildings, including Flora’s Collection, a women’s clothing store that has served the community for over 30 years. Dining options include local favorites Topp’s Barbecue, known for its rib tips, and Mildred’s, a go-to for traditional Southern cooking. Residents pick up groceries at Freshley’s Market and Food Giant. Dollar General offers essentials.
More shopping and dining options are nearby in Amory, Columbus and West Point and beyond. “Tupelo isn’t very far away, and they have everything,” Gibson says. Monroe Regional Hospital is near downtown and has an emergency room.
Spring tours and fall blues fest highlight Aberdeen’s events
The Aberdeen Pilgrimage is one of the city’s most popular springtime events, drawing locals and out-of-towners alike to tour historic Victorian homes and Antebellum mansions. In the fall, the Bukka White Blues Festival features live music, a barbecue rib and steak competition and kids’ activities.
Aberdeen is car-dependent with regional highway links
Due to Aberdeen’s lack of a fixed route bus line, residents get around by car. Mississippi State Highways 25 and 45 run through the city and connect to nearby communities, including Tupelo, about 40 miles away. The closest international airports are Memphis International and Birmingham-Shuttlesworth, both roughly 140 miles away.
Occasional hurricane winds and rain but low flood risk
While not near the coast, Aberdeen can experience impact from hurricanes, including powerful winds and heavy rain. Flooding is possible, but the risk is minor.
