Orange Mound, Memphis is the first Black neighborhood in the U.S.
Founded in 1890, Orange Mound became part of Memphis in 1919. “It’s the first Black neighborhood in the United States that was engineered and built by Black homeowners,” says Claudette Boyd, president of the Orange Mound Community Parade Committee, who has lived in the area for about 50 years. “We’re older than Harlem.” The area’s rich history is visible everywhere, from the Historic Melrose High School to the Orange Mound Grill to Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, built in 1879. Residents are dedicated to preserving the neighborhood’s identity and history. “We’re trying to hold onto authentic Orange Mound,” Boyd says.
Melrose High School in Memphis has innovative teaching methods.
The Orange Mound Community Parade Committee (OMCPC) was founded in 1990 to honor the Southern Heritage Classic, a rival football game between Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tennessee State University (TSU) and Jackson State University, held every September. “We just decided to do something for the community,” Boyd says. “All the children and everybody, they just come and look and have a good time.” The parade rolls through Orange Mound, with marching bands and groups from both colleges dancing through the street. “We have people all over the United States who come and participate in parades, and it’s a great thing,” Boyd says. The OMPC hosts other community events, such as book signings with local authors, and residents can attend games at Melrose Stadium.
Older homes that sometimes need repairs cost $250,0000 or less
While Orange Mound’s backyards are filled with mature trees, the grassy front lawns are decorated with bushes, trees and flowers. Sidewalks line the roads, interrupted by driveways that can fit at least one car. Most houses in the neighborhood were built in the early to mid-20th century, including ranch styles, bungalows and shotgun-style homes. Prices typically fall between $35,000 and $250,000, with less expensive options needing repairs.
Homes in Orange Mound showcase architectural diversity and community pride.
Orange Mound's housing market caters to a variety of lifestyles and budgets.
Ranch-style homes are sprinkled throughout Orange Mound.
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Melrose Alumni Association supports current students
As part of Memphis Shelby County Schools, students can start at Dunbar Elementary School before attending Sherwood Middle School, both of which receive a C from Niche. Melrose High School taught first through 12th grade until 1965 and only became a four-year high school in 1995. It has a D-plus. The school’s rich network of graduates has come together to form the Melrose High School Alumni Association, founded in 1978. “We have the Melrose Alumni Association because all of us live, breathe and move in the same community,” Boyd says. The association’s mission is to give deserving students scholarships to further their education, with over $325,000 awarded as of November 2025.
Dunbar Elementary School is a public school serving grades PK-7 in Memphis.
Sherwood Middle is a public school located in Memphis.
Orange Mound is home to schools dedicated to academic excellence.
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Locally owned restaurants and groceries near major retailers
Orange Mound is home to several locally owned businesses. “Ms. Daisy has been at Orange Mound Grill for 50 years,” Boyd says, speaking about the soul food restaurant that opened in the 1940s. The establishment has been under its current owner since 1973. “It’s a staple of the community. They’ve had the same customers for generations.” Other eateries include Pop’s Tamales and The Wing Factory. Several small grocery stores like Landmark Farmers Market and Carnes Mini Market Grocery are in town. Superlo Foods is about 1 mile away. “I go to Costco because my grandbaby works there,” Boyd says. Costco is about a 12-mile drive. Walmart, Target and Lowe’s are all within a 10-mile drive.
Stop by the Landmark Farmers Market in Orange Mound.
Enjoy one of the many flavors of wings at The Wing Factory in Orange Mound.
Stop by Superlo Foods just south of Orange Mound for all your fresh food needs.
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Locals can visit several Orange Mound parks
Lewis-Davis Park, which has a playground, is just one of several options for residents. “We’re parked out,” Boyd says. “We’ve got plenty of parks.” Families can visit the splash pad and fountains at Orange Mound Park before walking a few blocks to the Orange Mound Community and Senior Center, where they can swim year-round at the indoor pool.
Enjoy a stroll on the paved walking path at Lewis Davis Park in Memphis.
Challenge friends to a game of basketball on the court at Orange Mound Park.
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Memphis public transit and highways take residents across the city
Downtown Memphis is about 5 miles away. Part of U.S. Route 78 and state Route 4, which locals call Lamar Avenue, runs along the neighborhood, connecting with Interstate 240. Memphis Area Transit Authority manages bus routes along Lamar and Park avenues. Memphis International Airport is about a 7-mile drive. Methodist University Hospital is about 4 miles away.Orange Mound receives a CAP Index Crime Score of 9 out of 10, higher than the national average of 4.
Memphis International Airport is just south of Orange Mound.
Catch a bus from any major road in Orange Mound.
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Orange Mound community preserves its history through new library
With development happening across the railroads from the neighborhood, including the construction of new homes, Liberty Park and the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, residents are focused on maintaining Orange Mound. “As a Black historical community, we should have more organized, concerted efforts to make sure that we keep our community as strong as possible,” Boyd says. Some of this preservation is coming now, with the Historic Melrose High School being turned into the Orange Mound Library with a genealogy center in April 2024. “We’re so happy to get this done,” Boyd says. “We’re trying to work and make sure they don’t forget us. Our history is important, too.”
The Historic Melrose School in Orange Mound dates back to 1938.
The Historic Melrose School is the future site of a library, and a genealogy center.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Orange Mound
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
7
4
Assault with Weapon
8
4
Robbery
8
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
9
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Orange Mound Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Orange Mound, Memphis sell after 66 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Orange Mound, Memphis over the last 12 months is $85,000, down 17% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Move-In Ready New Construction – 830 David Street, Memphis Brand-new 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offering 1,300 sqft of modern living with ceramic tile flooring, marble countertops, tile backsplash, and a spacious primary suite with walk-in shower. Conveniently located near schools, parks, shopping, and dining. Builder offering up to 3% toward closing costs with an accepted offer. Don’t miss this
Well priced and move in ready, this 4 bedroom 2 bath home offers central heat and air and 1691 square feet. Ideal entry level opportunity for an owner occupant or an investor. The large partially finished upstairs area provides flexibility for storage or future conversion into additional living space. Recent improvements include a new roof and gutters in March 2024, exterior paint in 2024, fresh
Renovated rental property with an active lease in place. Currently leased at $1,200 with a lease expiration of 09/31/2026. No creative finance offers. This home is part of a 103 home package.
Rare opportunity to own a 3BR/2BA home + Office with 3 year old HVAC and hot water heater in a quiet, well-established neighborhood. Perfect for an owner occupant or investor! This solid, light-filled home features new vinyl siding, hardwood floors, generous room sizes and a park-like backyard. The home has central A/C and Heat along with stainless steel appliances, including a refrigerator and
Great investment opportunity! Each unit offers 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Some repairs are needed to bring these spacious units to their full potential, making them ideal for any investor portfolio. This unit can be sold individually or sold with 1218 Ethel.
Bring All Offers! GLENVIEW! This cleared lot is ready for your new construction build. The seller has already developed two neighboring properties adjacent to 1902 E. McLemore, providing an ideal reference for design, value, and build potential. Architectural plans and a recent appraisal have been completed and are included in the sales price, offering a turnkey opportunity for builders or
AS IS Sale. This property is located in a great neighborhood and Hot Zip Code!!! Its perfect in the best condition to make it your Perfect Project!!! The flooring is very solid with Original hardwood flooing throughout. Seller is Motivated to sell and will Entertain all Reasonable offers! Please do your Due Diligence up front, since the property is vacant and no utilites are on. Seller prefers
Looking for a fixer upper with some room for equity after repair... look no further. This 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is the perfect starter home or initial investment property. With the interior fully updated, this house need some final touches and a little elbow grease to bring it all together. FYI, after value is above $140,000. Call with question or schedule your showing today. Agent/Owner
Great investment opportunity! Each unit offers 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Some repairs are needed to bring these spacious units to their full potential, making them ideal for any investor portfolio. All offers must include proof of funds. This unit can be sold individually or with 1218 Ethel.
Investor friendly home! Or first time homebuyer! Fully remodeled with brand new roof, windows, bathroom, kitchen, and appliances. Currently occupied but will be vacant at closing! Market rent $1200/mo! Do not disturb tenant. Showing after accepted offer only. 1 year home warranty offered!
Experience modern luxury living across three beautifully designed levels in this striking new construction residence, ideally positioned just a short walk or a three-minute drive from the University of Memphis. The kitchen is designed for both function and style, featuring stainless steel appliances including a refrigerator, dishwasher, and range, anchored by a statement waterfall island
Beautiful property in a great location! RENTED MHA $1849.00 per month- New home built in 2024 in growing market near university of Memphis- 4 Bed, 2 Bath home features polished concrete floors- 5 panel doors- modern lighting, bath rooms and interior finishes. DO NOT DISTURB TENANT
Welcome to University Crossings Apartments. University Crossings is a group of 5 communities managed from one office. All are the ideal location for the hardworking co-ed. Each community is only a short walk that puts you on campus in time for your 8 a.m. class and located just steps away is the Highland Strip that includes many entertainment and dining choices. With slight variations between the
Charming 2 Bedroom Townhouse in Gated Community – Steps from U of M & Highland Strip!Location: University of Memphis NeighborhoodPrice: $1,000/mo with washer & dryer | $900/mo withoutBedrooms: 2Bathrooms: 1.5Square Feet: 969Type: TownhouseWelcome home to this cozy and conveniently located 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhouse in a gated community just across the street
MWell-kept and full of charm, this move-in ready 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers beautiful flooring, fresh paint, and a warm, inviting layout. An office off the den provides flexible space for work or hobbies. Enjoy a huge lot with lush grass, a great garden area, and a 1-car garage located in the rear. This charming home is ready for its next tenant.
Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in the vibrant city of Memphis, TN. This property boasts a spacious fenced yard and convenient off-street parking. Inside, you'll find beautiful hardwood flooring and washer/dryer hookups for your convenience. The home also offers an online maintenance portal and online rent payment system for easy and efficient management of your living
Welcome home to this cozy 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom house in Memphis, perfect for comfortable family living. Step inside to enjoy an updated kitchen, making daily routines easier and more convenient. The warm hardwood flooring throughout the home adds character and a welcoming feel to every room. Outside, a fenced backyard provides a safe and private space for kids to play, relaxing weekends, or
Act Fast! Move In Special!Move in and enjoy a limited time rent incentive. Apply by March 13th to qualify. Ask us for details today don't miss out! Restrictions apply.Welcome to this 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home for rent in Memphis featuring inviting living areas ready for your personal touch. The kitchen is equipped with an oven range and large refrigerator with storage for daily meal
Welcome to Prescott! This charming two-bedroom duplex located at 635 S Prescott offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience in thevibrant city of Memphis. This rental unit features a cozy 900 sqft layout, perfect for a home that feels just right. Inside, you will find a well-laid-out space consisting of one spacious bedroom on the main floor and an additional small bedroom upstairs, making
Welcome to 2716 Deadrick Ave, a charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home located in the vibrant city of Memphis, TN. This home boasts a range of amenities designed to enhance your living experience. The hardwood flooring adds a touch of elegance, while the central air conditioning ensures your comfort throughout the seasons. The property also includes a storage room and washer/dryer hookups for your
2 bed 1.5 bath within walking distance to the University of Memphis in a Gated community with key card access. 2 blocks from the Highland strip with local restaurants. Beautifully maintained 2-story apartment in Woodland Station.
Welcome to 1408 Alamo St, a charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home located in the vibrant city of Memphis, TN. This property boasts a range of amenities designed for your comfort and convenience. The home features beautiful hardwood and tile flooring, providing a blend of elegance and durability. The fenced yard offers a secure space for your pets to roam freely. The house also includes off-street
Townhouse duplex. Two adequately sized bedrooms upstairs with very good closet space. Good sized family room with double windows on each side, adequate kitchen with washer and dryer hook ups, double stainless-steel sinks, ample cabinet space, HVAC, adequate parking for at least two cars, large, fenced backyard. 1 full bath upstairs, 1 half bath downstairs. Available for Section 8. Contact listing
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