What to know when moving to Tupelo, MS
Tupelo at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 39% of residents are renters and the median household income is $63,447.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $954, making it an affordable option in Mississippi.
- The Reality Check:
- The poverty rate stands at 15.8%, which may impact local services.
- Commute:
- Only 0.3% of residents use public transit, so plan on driving.
- Top Tip:
- Expect about 135 rainy days per year, so having an umbrella handy is wise.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Tupelo has a population of 29,817, with a notable education level where 28.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The community has a significant rental presence, with 39% of households renting. With an annual rainfall total of nearly 55 inches, the weather can be quite wet, so residents should be prepared for that.
Probably not your spot if: You prefer urban areas with robust public transit options, as the transit share is extremely low.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $954, which is relatively affordable compared to many urban areas.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $187,600, making homeownership accessible.
- The poverty rate is 15.8%, indicating a portion of the population may face economic challenges.
- 39% of residents are renters, reflecting a balanced housing market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Mississippi has seen a reduction in crime rates overall, which may be encouraging for prospective residents. The state annual rate for violent crime is 221.8 per 100,000, which is 31.8% lower than the national average. Property crime also shows a favorable trend, with a rate of 1,272.4 per 100,000, 17.7% lower than the national average.
- Violent crime rate: 221.8 per 100,000 vs. national rate of 325.3.
- Property crime rate: 1,272.4 per 100,000 vs. national rate of 1,546.9.
- Notable trend: Violent crime has decreased by 10.2% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Mississippi).
Schools & Higher Ed
Tupelo has access to postsecondary education with one notable institution.
- Postsecondary institutions: 1
- With College Scorecard data: 1
- Named institution: C N K Barber College
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
The climate in Lee County averages about 54.9 inches of precipitation annually, with a total of 135 rainy days. This means residents should be prepared for wet conditions throughout the year. There are no snow days, making it a mild winter location.
- Ballard Park - 4.6 stars (1,555 reviews)
- Veterans Park - 4.7 stars (1,132 reviews)
- Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo - 4.4 stars (961 reviews)
- Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center - 4.7 stars (582 reviews)
- Tombigbee Lake State Park - 4.5 stars (582 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.