DeSoto Plaza News

SOUTHAVEN

Bordered by Tennessee to the North, we are truly at the top of Mississippi. The mighty Mississippi River and rich Delta farm land, accent DeSoto County's Western border. Arkabutla Lake and the Coldwater River to the South, offer outstanding recreational benefits to our residents and visitors alike. Southaven is located in DeSoto County, of Mississippi.


Southaven was incorporate in 1978 and the name was shortened to its current form. In twenty years, the size of this city has doubled its land area, and tripled its population. Southaven is traversed from North to South by the Interstate 55, most of which has been widened to 10 lanes just recently. The average temperature is 42F in January and 91F in July. Annual precipitation is 50 inches which is well distributed throughout the year. Month of March is the wettest month of the year, but October is the driest season of the year. There is less than 2 inches of snow falls each year. There is occasional severe weather, but residents of Southaven enjoy a warm southern exposure without the threat of tropical storms.

As it shows in 2000 census, the racial makeup of the city was; 65.08% White, 25.02% African American, 15% Native American, 0.74% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 1.13% from other races, and 0.80% from two or more races. The Hispanic or Latino races were 2.26% of the population. Southaven median income for a household was $46,691 to $52,333. Males had a median income of $36,671 versus females of $26,557. About 5.3% of families and 6.7% of the population were below the poverty level, including 8.2% of those were under age 18, and 6.8% of those age 65 or over.

The people of Southaven are famous for their hospitality, generosity and helpfulness. They care for quality of life, safety and affordability. The governor has worked hard to provide good health care system and great quality of schools for the people of this city. That’s why the schools are among the top rated schools in the state. The construction of new homes and cost of living is low. There are varieties of housing choices; apartments, patio homes, estate homes, single family homes, and senior housing. The prices are affordable. Most new homes in the neighborhoods are built with bricks. That is the reason why the cost of homeowners insurances has remained low in the area.

The completion of new training facility for the Fire Department will give the highest fire safety rating available to this city. Full-time fire professionals serve the community, and have involvement on weekend activities of people. A well-supported Police Department has become a national role model, reassuring peace and sense of security to Southaven’s residence.

According to the Crime Index, it is below the state average and the national average. The senior members (65 years and older) are exempt from Ad Valorem taxes up to $60,000 of the market value on their primary residence. Mississippi is tax-friendly to retirees. Qualified retirement income is exempt from state income tax and Social Security is not taxed, regardless of total income.

As Southaven is growing in population, the Baptist Memorial Hospital has gone under a $175 million dollar expansion project. This major hospital is located in the heart of the city, and is consisted of numerous private physician practices, behavioral health services, pharmacies, dental practices and health specialists. Great comprehensive health care services are offered to people of Southaven, bringing convenience and peace of mind to the residence.

There are tourism attractions and plenty to do when family comes to visit. The community events such as ;Spring fest, Music by the Lake, 4th of July fireworks, Fishing Rodeo, Veterans Luncheon, Christmas Parade, and Breakfast with Santa. With the City minutes away from Memphis, it's just a short drive to the zoo, amusement park, Children's museum, botanical gardens and more.

For family worship, there are nearly 90 churches representing 25 different denominations. The churches conduct special programs throughout the year, and are very involved in the community.

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