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Mississippi neighborhood among best US spots to eat well on a budget, survey says

A Mississippi neighborhood is named among the best spots for affordable dining in the country, according to a recent survey.
A Mississippi neighborhood is named among the best spots for affordable dining in the country, according to a recent survey. Mika Baumeister via Unsplash

A Mississippi neighborhood is ranked among the best spots in the country for eating well on a budget, according to a recent survey by Advance America, a consumer financial services company.

“These spots show that dining well doesn’t need to be complicated or costly — it just needs to be part of the community fabric,” Laura McCutcheon, vice president of marketing at Advance America, said in a Sept. 30 news release.

The survey of 3,024 foodies across the country was conducted in September and found 110 neighborhoods with the most affordable dining options, researchers said.

Downtown Hattiesburg, located about 75 miles northwest from Biloxi, ranked #32 for tasty, affordable dining, according to the survey.

What makes Downtown Hattiesburg stand out?

Hattiesburg is a “rising culinary hub,” according to Travel Taste and Tour Magazine.

The city has nearly 200 local eateries, with dining options ranging from fresh seafood and cajun-inspired meals to Southern cooking, vegan and Thai, according to Visit Hattiesburg.

Here’s what Advance America said about the neighborhood:

“Downtown Hattiesburg combines its historic setting with a strong community focus on healthy living. The farmers market is a favorite spot for organic produce and local goods, while nearby eateries keep their menus wholesome and affordable. It’s a welcoming place for anyone wanting nutritious meals on a budget.”

What are the best spots in the U.S. to eat well on a budget?

These are the top 10 neighborhoods for affordable dining in the U.S., according to Advance America’s survey:

1. Athens, Georgia

2. Riverside in Jacksonville, Florida

3. Downtown Greenville, South Carolina

4. East Nashville, Tennessee

5. North Charleston, South Carolina

6. Downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee

7. East Austin, Texas

8. Old Town Albuquerque, New Mexico

9. Lancaster, Pennsylvania

10. Downtown Asheville, North Carolina

Natalie Demaree
mcclatchy-newsroom
Natalie Demaree is a service journalism reporter covering Mississippi for McClatchy Media. She holds a master’s in journalism from Columbia Journalism School and a bachelor’s in journalism and political science with a specialization in African and African American Studies from the University of Arkansas. 
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