They say it’s all in the numbers, and for Matt and Ranae Boomgarden, when it came to deciding where to retire, there couldn’t be a more accurate statement. After moving from Minnesota to Arkansas, the family started vacationing and trying out coastal towns to live in upon retirement. Once they visited the Mississippi Gulf Coast for the first time, they fell in love and knew this was the place that they wanted to be. Ranae says, “It’s a hidden gem. There’s always somewhere good to eat or to explore, and we didn’t want to go home!”
The Best Coastal Towns
The Boomgardens spent countless hours researching and decided to retire in Coastal Mississippi because of the affordable lifestyle, tax benefits, things to do, and, most importantly, it wasn’t so densely populated that they couldn’t enjoy retirement. They appreciate that they can get up and go without fighting traffic or waiting in long lines like in many other coastal cities.
Weather On The Mississippi Gulf Coast
Of course, weather played a significant role in their decision. “When you live in the north, there’s not much to do in the winter – you’re stuck inside with the snow and cold. We love the outdoors, and here, we can be outside most of the year,” explains Ranae. She adds that coastal living offers a great lifestyle. “With the plethora of things to do here, you will never get bored; if you do, it’s your fault!”
The Boomgardens frequent the many beautiful beaches across the Coast. Another favorite spot of theirs is Fishbone Alley in Gulfport, with some of the best local cuisine. Matt says, “There’s always something to do here because you have hockey with the Sea Wolves, Shuckers baseball, and all kinds of indoor and outdoor activities, including Cruisin’ the Coast for those who love classic cars.”
Things To Do In Coastal Mississippi
When family visits, they have limited time with them but pack in lots of memory-making fun. Both recommend Ocean Adventures Marine Park, the Mississippi Aquarium and trying the local fare at any one of the fantastic eateries on the Coast. There is a never-ending choice of delicious restaurants whether you’re craving fresh seafood, Italian, Mexican, or Creole, to name a few.
Of course, as many of us are, the Boomgardens were pleasantly surprised with the home prices along the Coast. Since they were retiring, price points were essential. After viewing homes in the best coastal communities, they decided to build a custom home in Oak Landing, a new home community in Gulfport, Mississippi. “Summer Salt Cottage,” as they lovingly call it, is absolutely stunning.
The Secret Coast – Perfect For Empty Nesters
Since moving to the Secret Coast, the Boomgardens still enjoy exploring or spending time in their beautiful backyard oasis. They are delighted to have found a church and value the family they have built there. When asked to share advice for those considering moving to Florida, Texas or the East Coast, Matt says, “Visit the Gulf Coast here in Mississippi; I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the people and the area.”
Learn more about Matt and Ranae’s journey in their article in Gulf Coast Woman Magazine.
