Award-winning college town in northern Mississippi
As the home of the University of Mississippi — better known as Ole Miss — Oxford was recently named the "Best Small College Town" by USA Today. The small city is home to about 25,000 residents, plus another 25,000 students when school is in session. Technically, the centrally located campus isn't part of Oxford, but the university is deeply embedded in the city's identity and character. Ole Miss is a major driver for people moving to the area, and the city's historic charm, wealth of local shops and restaurants give Oxford a strong sense of community. The university is also one of the city’s major employers, while the tech industry and retail also account for much of the area’s employment. “This town has really grown in the time I’ve been here,” says Dasha McGinness, a broker associate with Kessinger Real Estate who has lived in Oxford for over two decades. “It’s really boomed in the last four years.”
The focal point of Oxford is Ole Miss, which provides more than 200 undergraduate and graduate programs.
Neilson's Department Store in Oxford claims to be the oldest store in the south, having opened its doors in 1839.
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University of Mississippi and Oxford Public Schools
The centerpiece of Oxford is the University of Mississippi, the state's oldest public university. Much of the student body lives on campus, but it's not uncommon for students to live scattered around Oxford in one of many rental properties. Before potentially attending Ole Miss, young students in the area will likely zone into the Oxford Public School District, which receives an A-minus from Niche. Lafayette County School District, which receives an A, also has several schools in Oxford.
Oxford High School maintains a student-teacher ratio of 15.52:1.
Central Elementary is located at 409 Washington Ave in Oxford.
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Ole Miss games at Vaught Hemingway Stadium and the Double Decker Arts Festival
When it's football season, most Oxford residents flock to The Grove to tailgate before watching the Ole Miss Rebels play at Vaught Hemingway Stadium. Though the city rallies around its Rebels for top-tier athletics, residents also gather during non-sports events throughout the year. The Holly Jolly Holidays festival and Fall Festival are some of the seasonal gatherings, while Third Thursdays and the Square Jam Session have live music and local vendors. The two-day Double Decker Arts Festival is a prime example of Oxford’s investment in its art scene, with plenty of local art and live music. On a day-to-day basis, art aficionados can check out the Southside Gallery or the University of Mississippi Museum.
Oxford's Vaught Hemingway Stadium serves as the home field for the Ole Miss Rebels.
The University of Mississippi Museum in Oxford began as the Mary Buie Museum in 1939.
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Local shopping on the Square
Many events take place on the Square, Oxford's downtown area filled with local boutiques, shops and restaurants, plus city hall and the Lafayette County Courthouse. Residents can find everything from barbecue to Southern comfort food and cozy coffee shops. Oxford is also home to a burgeoning writing scene, and Square Books has a vast collection of books and writing events throughout the year. Outside the Square, residents can find grocery stores, chain restaurants and fast-food spots along main thoroughfares.
Oxford's cultural hub, the Courthouse Square Historic District, was established in 1837.
From collectibles to children's books, Square Books in Oxford has something for people of all ages.
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An abundance of new builds and condos
Oxford has an abundance of new builds throughout the city as well as more established homes built around the 1960s. There's also an assortment of condos and townhomes. The city is split into several distinct neighborhoods ranging from private communities like Belmont, where homes sit on spacious lots near downtown, to golf course communities like the Grove of Grand Oaks. The median price for single-family homes hovers around $500,000, slightly higher than the national median. “Home values are still very affordable. We still have homes in the national median range. But we also have a lot of second-home owners and investors, which is very popular recently,” McGinness says. Homes tend to stay on the market for 40 days before being sold.
Some homes in Oxford have cozy front porches that welcome guests.
Charming townhomes are sprinkled throughout Oxford.
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Oxford green spaces and Sardis Lake
Oxford has several municipal parks, trails and recreation centers. In the run-up to the city's 200th anniversary, the Vision 2037 Comprehensive Plan accounts for everything from park development to land use and zoning. Residents are also about 10 miles from Sardis Lake, an expansive 98,000-acre reservoir with fishing, boating and camping spots.
There is plenty of green space for all to enjoy at Lamar Park in Oxford.
The 98,520-acre Sardis Lake is a short drive from Oxford.
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Commuting in Oxford
Two major roads, U.S. Highway 287 and Mississippi Highway 7, run through Oxford. The city doesn't have major mass transit, so residents drive to get around. For school, students can take the Oxford University Transport to shuttle around campus. The Univeristy-Oxford Airport, located minutes from the university, flies business and private flights, while the nearest commercial airport, Tupelo Regional Airport, sits about 50 miles away. Oxford is about 52 miles from Tupelo and about 160 miles from Jackson, the state capital.
Crime in Oxford
Oxford's climate is generally mild, with temperate summers and mild winters. Over the past two years, Oxford has reported a violent crime rate higher than state and national figures, although property crime rates fluctuate below or around the national numbers.
Written By
Robert Breckenridge
Photography Contributed By
Mary Drost
Video By
Chris Norton
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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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.
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On average, homes in Oxford, MS sell after 232 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Oxford, MS over the last 12 months is $513,850, up 21% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Immaculate move-in ready cottage at The Crossing at Oxford Commons. This vibrant neighborhood is walkable to many restaurants, stores and coffee shops. Only 1.4 miles from The Square and 2.6 miles from Ole Miss. Very thoughtfully updated in every area- wood floors, carpet, countertops, tile, lighting and cabinetry. Two car garage. Perfect location close to the community pool and clubhouse.
WHETHER YOU'RE A LAND INVESTOR, NATURE LOVER, OR READY TO BUILD, THE LAFAYETTE 13.5 DESERVES A LOOK! This 13.5 acre tract in Taylor, Mississippi, features old pasture with natural regeneration, offering beauty and investment potential. With four potential homesites and an open, build-ready area, it's ideal for a home, cabin, or retreat. Frontage on County Road 367, nearby power, and easy well
Rare find with a fully separate workshop/studio featuring wash stations, previously approved for a food manufacturing permit ideal for a home business or creative space. Located just 15 minutes from Oxford and Water Valley and 8 minutes from Taylor, this 3BR/2BA home offers 2 bedrooms down, 1 up, vaulted wood ceilings, and great natural light. Enjoy a large deck, a pergola, stone walkways, and a
Stunning 5 bed, 5.5 bath Mediterranean/Spanish style residence with a soft modern update in the popular Wellsgate neighborhood. The smooth white stucco, clay tile roof, curved architectural elements, along with the small wrought iron balcony over the double front doors give it a refined villa like feel. Tall arched windows bring in beautiful natural light. A large curved island with beautiful
Welcome to 9 CR 241 where classic colonial charm meets modern comfort on a beautiful, flat one-acre lot. This spacious five-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath home offers room to grow, entertain, and relax both inside and out. The updated kitchen and new flooring provide a fresh, inviting feel, while the recently painted exterior and newer roof add peace of mind. Designed for comfort and efficiency,
Tucked away at the end of a quiet street, this fully renovated home sits on 1.5 scenic acres, offering the perfect blend of privacy and modern comfort. Inside, you'll find a spacious open floor plan with all-new flooring, custom cabinetry, and beautifully designed tile work in the bathrooms. The main living area flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining spaces, highlighted by a cozy
The Seasons is a great location with only 8 units and plenty of parking.This three bedroom, 3.5 bath freshly painted condo with new carpet is minutes from Ole Miss, the Oxford Square and the hospital. This end unit condo has a large den with a gas fireplace and hardwood floors, dinning room/office space and a spacious kitchen with updated stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. Three
Nestled in Oxford's established Old Country Club area and just moments from the Ole Miss campus, this expansive 5-bedroom, 3-bath home blends recent updates with exciting future potential. The remodeled kitchen serves as the heart of the home, complemented by spacious living areas and abundant natural light. A new roof and new gutters add lasting value and peace of mind. Set on a very large lot
Prime 29 acre tract located only minutes from Oxford off of Hwy 6..an excellent investment or development opportunity! This versatile tract offers endless potential. The property adjoins an established commercial business, offering strong potential for growth and mixed use possibilities. Beautiful rolling hills covered with hardwoods create a perfect setting for an estate as well. Multiple
WHETHER YOU'RE A LAND INVESTOR, NATURE LOVER, OR LOOKING TO BUILD IN A SCENIC SETTING, THE LAFAYETTE 4 CHECKS ALL THE BOXES! This 4 acre tract in Taylor, Mississippi, features old pasture with natural regeneration, offering beauty and investment potential. A build-ready area provides the perfect spot for a home, cabin, or retreat. With frontage on County Road 367, easy access, and power nearby,
Charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in an unbeatable location just a short walk to the Square! Enjoy the perfect blend of character and updates, featuring a beautifully renovated kitchen, updated bathrooms with new cabinetry, countertops, and tile, plus gorgeous new wood flooring throughout. A new roof adds peace of mind, while the fenced-in backyard offers a great space to relax or entertain. Spend
Edgewater at the Country Club of Oxford redefines townhome living with a stunning collection of luxury lakefront residences nestled along a private shoreline. The heart of the home features a chef's kitchen with custom cabinetry, quartzite countertops, Thermador appliances, and an entertainer's dream wet bar with beverage center and ice maker. Outdoors, enjoy a cozy patio with fireplace and
Step into a lifestyle designed for those who want more than just a college address. Nestled just minutes from Ole Miss, Ivy & Elm offers brand-new luxury cottages and upscale apartments that blend Southern elegance with modern comfort. From curated designer finishes to community perks that make every day feel like a retreat, Ivy & Elm is where campus convenience meets boutique-style
At The Hollis, every detail is designed to deliver the comfort of home with the energy of a connected community. Fully furnished townhomes feature refined finishes like quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, hardwood-style flooring, walk-in closets, in-home washer and dryer, and thoughtfully styled living spaces — complete with a 55" flat-screen TV and inviting front and back porches
Welcome to your new home in Oxford, MS. Our community features thoughtfully designed 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments, each appointed with an in-unit washer and dryer, stainless-steel appliance packages, and open-concept layouts that naturally flow between living, dining, and kitchen. Beyond your front door, enjoy a full suite of resort-style amenities: challenge friends to a game on the pickleball
Taylor Bend Apartments near 'Ole Miss is ready for you to move in. Just a short walk to the campus. Rent is per unit. Be sure to check out the current floorplan options for some of the biggest apartments in Oxford, MS. The professional community team is waiting to show you all that this community has in store including resort-style pool, large apartments, and more. You'll experience a unique
Wellington Place Oxford is resort style living at its finest. We are located just minutes away from the Ole Miss campus. We are for people who are done with the chaos of dorm life or regular student housing and need a little luxury in their life. If this sounds like you, we welcome you to come and tour our property and find out why we are the perfect fit for your lifestyle. From valet parking
Archive Oxford is the key to living your best Ole Miss life, offering 1, 2 and 4-bedroom off-campus apartments that will keep you in the center of it all. With furnished spaces and a buzzing community, we’re the best place for University of Mississippi students.
Welcome to The Belle at The LamarIn the heart of Oxford, Mississippi, The Belle at The Lamar will offer a blend of charm and modern luxury in an upscale community with spacious flats, high-end finishes, and top-notch amenities. Enjoy resort-style living near the University of Mississippi and downtown. Floor plans ranging 1 - 3 bedrooms, nearby amenities and freshly built with high-end
Flatts at South Campus is THE place to live if you're an Ole Miss student or attending Northwest Mississippi Community College. We are a step ahead of the rest, providing a wide range of updated floor plans, affordable rates and an amazing amenity package in our completely renovated community. Plus, we're located mere steps away from the new South Campus Recreation Center and the Ole Miss campus.
Experience the height of comfort and style in our newly built luxury single-family detached homes. Featuring spacious three-bedroom layouts with private bathrooms, these residences are designed for modern student living—combining privacy, convenience, and sophistication. With designer finishes, open-concept layouts, and contemporary amenities, this is Oxford living at its finest.
Located in the vibrant city of Oxford, The Azul offers a variety of first-class amenities and thoughtfully designed apartments for you to call home. Our mission is to enhance the lives of our residents by providing exceptional customer service, a strong sense of community, and superior property maintenance. Our community features a newly renovated resort-style pool and sauna, 24/7 gym and
Nestled among the trees. At Lexington Pointe Apartment Homes, life feels effortless—away from the noise, but never out of reach. Spacious one, two, and three-bedroom layouts welcome you with thoughtful interiors designed for comfort and convenience. From in-home features like washer and dryer sets to private patios and cozy fireplaces in select homes, every detail is crafted to make daily life
Welcome to The Links & The Greens at Oxford Apartments in Oxford, Mississippi! Living in this beautifully developed apartment community provides everything you want right at home, in your own neighborhood. We are located minutes from the Oxford Square, approximately 3 miles from the University of Mississippi, and on the orange bus route. Whether your preference is upstairs with added views or
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