Pontotoc offers a small-town atmosphere between Tupelo and Oxford
The northwest Mississippi city of Pontotoc offers residents a walkable downtown with plenty of single-family homes, restaurants and outdoor activities. The community is within commuting distances to regional cities such as Tupelo, but has several job centers, including furniture and home goods manufacturers. “Pontotoc is attractive because it's located halfway between Oxford and Tupelo,” says Kim Graham, a Realtor with Century 21 Knowles Realty, who has 12 years of experience. “It is a nice place to live. It's not a huge shopping hub, but it has the small-town boutiques [and] they have a farmers’ market.”
Lower-cost housing with several styles to pick from
Homes include ranch and Craftsman styles, along with New Traditionals. Land is also available. The median housing price is $145,000, lower than the state and national medians. However, prices can range from around $100,000 to $650,000 depending on factors such as size and condition.
Properties are typically on gridded streets with larger lots. Oak and magnolia trees accent lawns. Some subdivisions do have smaller lot sizes with little tree cover. Manufactured home communities are also present.
Public and private school options for students
Public school students can attend Pontotoc City Schools, rated A-minus on Niche. They can also be zoned for the Pontotoc County School District, graded B-plus. Private school options are available, including the unranked Ivy Greene Academy.
Plenty of outdoor and indoor attractions to enjoy
Howard Stafford Park has sports courts, fields, a campground and fishing spots on Lake Pontotoc. The Lyle Hansberger Sportsplex features multiple baseball and softball fields. The 44-mile Tanglefoot Trail runs through Pontotoc and connects to other towns such as Ecru and New Houlka. Trace State Park, east of downtown, has hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. Pontotoc Country Club is open to the public and offers a 6,300-yard layout and practice facility.
The Town Square Post Office and Museum displays exhibits and artifacts on local history. The Funtime Skateland roller rink can be rented out for events. The Pontotoc Agri-Center hosts horse shows and rodeo events.
Annual events include the Bodock festival, featuring live music, a car show and games.
Dining and shopping in downtown and off Highway 15
Restaurants are concentrated off Highway 15 and in downtown and include a mix of chains and local spots. Montgomery’s On Main serves southern cuisine. The Bleu Collar Sandwich Co. offers salads and sandwiches. Mi Pueblo has Mexican dishes.
Downtown features several boutique stores, and a farmers' market is held from February to December. Larger retailers such as Walmart and Piggly Wiggly are also present.
Weather and flood risks in Pontotoc
According to maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the locale does have some flooding risks, especially near lakes and creeks. Tornadoes and severe weather are also factors.
Easy highway access leading to Oxford and Tupelo
Pontotoc has no public transit connections and is car dependent. U.S. Highway 278 runs on the northern end of the community and connects to Oxford, 32 miles west, while Tupelo is 24 miles east. Tupelo Regional Airport is 17 miles east, while Memphis International is 90 miles northwest. Several urgent care clinics are also in Pontotoc, but North Mississippi Medical Center’s Tupelo location is 19 miles east.
