Olive Branch MS

Olive Branch, MS – Tucked just outside Memphis, Olive Branch is a charming Southern city known for its friendly vibe, strong sense of community, and beautiful green spaces. With a mix of down-home warmth and modern convenience, it’s a place where families grow, businesses thrive, and visitors feel right at home. Whether you're exploring historical sites, savoring local eats, or enjoying a relaxing day at the park, Olive Branch offers small-town comfort with big heart.

• Population: ~40,000
• Weather: Mild winters and warm, humid summers (30-90°F); occasional spring thunderstorms.
• Places To Visit: Olive Branch City Park, Wesson House, Cherokee Valley Golf Club, Old Towne Historic District.
• Top Activities: Walking nature trails, browsing antique shops, enjoying local fairs and festivals, playing a round of golf, exploring nearby Memphis attractions.
• Famous Food: Southern barbecue ribs, catfish plates, sweet tea, and homemade pies from local diners and family-owned restaurants.

Olive Branch, Mississippi is a growing city in the Memphis metropolitan area. Known for its strong industrial base and family-friendly environment, Olive Branch offers promising career opportunities in logistics, healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Below are the top five in-demand jobs in Olive Branch.

Olive Branch, MS, might not have the hustle and bustle of a big city, but it offers students some great spots to unwind, have fun, and create lasting memories. Whether you're looking for a peaceful park or a spot to grab some good food, Olive Branch has you covered.

Olive Branch City Park – This park is perfect for students looking to relax or gather with friends. With walking trails, lakes, and plenty of open green spaces, it's a great place to have a picnic or enjoy a game of frisbee.

Malco Olive Branch Cinema Grill – Want to catch the latest blockbuster? This cinema offers comfy seating and a grill menu, so you can enjoy some tasty snacks while you watch your movie.

Chickasaw Trails – Ideal for nature lovers, these trails offer a relaxing environment where you can find peace surrounded by nature. It's a great spot to clear your mind or have a heart-to-heart with a friend.

Olive Branch Skatepark – For those who love skateboarding or want to learn, this skatepark offers an adrenaline rush and is a great place to meet new people with similar interests.

The Beer House – While it might sound like an adult-only venue, this spot offers a relaxed atmosphere with an impressive selection of non-alcoholic drinks and casual food options. It's perfect for a low-key night out with friends.

Pops Diner – This retro-style diner provides a cozy vibe with delicious comfort food. It's a popular spot for students looking for affordable meals and a friendly atmosphere.

Olive Branch, Mississippi is a growing community located just southeast of Memphis, Tennessee. While there are no major universities headquartered within Olive Branch, it benefits from its close proximity to leading institutions in the greater Memphis metropolitan area and northern Mississippi. Residents and students in Olive Branch have access to some of the best public and private colleges and universities in the region, offering a wide range of academic and professional programs.

Top Public Colleges & Universities near Olive Branch, MS

University of Memphis – Located just 30 minutes from Olive Branch, this major public research university offers strong programs in education, business, engineering, and health sciences. It's known for a diverse student body and a vibrant urban campus.

Northwest Mississippi Community College (NWCC) – DeSoto Center – This campus, situated right in Southaven (just minutes from Olive Branch), provides affordable two-year degrees, technical certificates, and transfer programs. It is a top choice for students beginning their academic journey.

Mississippi State University (MSU) – Extension Center – Offering educational resources and continuing education programs, MSU’s Extension in nearby counties serves Olive Branch students pursuing degrees in agriculture, engineering, and more.

University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) – DeSoto Center Campus – This satellite campus in Southaven allows students in Olive Branch to complete bachelor’s and graduate degrees in education, business, and criminal justice while staying close to home.

Shelby State Community College (Now part of Southwest Tennessee Community College) – With campuses in Memphis, this accredited public college is easily accessible and offers degrees in healthcare, IT, and other in-demand fields.

Top Private Colleges & Universities near Olive Branch, MS

Christian Brothers University (CBU) – A respected private Catholic university in Memphis known for its engineering, business, and nursing programs. CBU offers a close-knit learning environment and a strong emphasis on community service.

Rhodes College – One of the top liberal arts colleges in the South, Rhodes offers rigorous programs in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Its scenic Memphis campus is just a short drive from Olive Branch.

Baptist Health Sciences University – Specializing in healthcare education, this Memphis-based university prepares students for careers in fields like nursing, radiology, and medical laboratory science.

University of the Health Sciences & Pharmacy (Memphis Campus) – A regional site for pharmacy and medical education, it attracts future healthcare professionals seeking advanced degrees close to Olive Branch.

Strayer University – Memphis Campus – A private online and campus-based university offering flexible degree options in business, IT, and public administration for working adults in the Olive Branch area.

Olive Branch, MS is home to several great high schools that offer excellent academic programs, strong extracurricular activities, and supportive learning environments. These schools help prepare students for college and beyond, with dedicated teachers and modern facilities.

Top Public High Schools in Olive Branch, MS

• Olive Branch High School – The main public school in the city, known for its strong academic offerings, competitive sports teams, and a wide range of student clubs and programs.
• Center Hill High School – Located nearby in DeSoto County, this school has a reputation for high test scores, excellent teaching staff, and vibrant student life.
• Lewisburg High School – Serving part of the Olive Branch area, Lewisburg is praised for its superior academics, fine arts programs, and safe school environment.
• DeSoto Central High School – Although situated in Southaven, it’s a top-ranking school that many Olive Branch residents attend. It offers rigorous courses and outstanding extracurriculars.
• Lake Cormorant High School – Located a short drive away, this school is known for its close-knit community feel and growing academic reputation.

Top Private High Schools in Olive Branch, MS

• Northpoint Christian School – A well-established private school offering a Christ-centered education with strong academics and a wide variety of sports and arts programs.
• Desoto Christian Academy – A small, nurturing private school that provides a personalized educational experience rooted in faith-based learning.
• Magnolia Heights School – Located just outside Olive Branch in Senatobia, the school’s high academic standards and caring faculty make it a great option for private education.
• Briarcrest Christian School – Though located in nearby Memphis, many families in Olive Branch choose this school for its excellent college-prep curriculum and strong athletic programs.
• Immanuel Center for Christian Education – A newer school focused on both strong academics and Christian values, offering small classes and personalized attention.

Olive Branch, Mississippi, is a growing city located just outside of Memphis, Tennessee. While Olive Branch itself does not have major league professional sports teams, residents enjoy close proximity to nationally recognized teams in nearby Memphis. Fans in Olive Branch are passionate and loyal, often supporting Memphis-based teams across several major sports leagues.

🏀 Basketball – Memphis Grizzlies (NBA)

• Memphis Grizzlies – The Memphis Grizzlies are the closest professional basketball team to Olive Branch and compete in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Founded in 1995 in Vancouver, Canada, the team moved to Memphis in 2001. Known for their “Grit and Grind” era, with players like Marc Gasol, Zach Randolph, Tony Allen, and Mike Conley, the Grizzlies have earned respect for their tough defense and team spirit. Today, young star Ja Morant leads the team and has helped bring Memphis back into playoff contention.

⚾ Baseball – Memphis Redbirds (Triple-A, MLB Affiliate)

• Memphis Redbirds – While not a Major League Baseball team, the Memphis Redbirds are the Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. Based in downtown Memphis, just a short drive from Olive Branch, they play at AutoZone Park and are a major draw for baseball fans in the region. The Redbirds have won multiple Pacific Coast League championships and have produced countless MLB players over the years.

🏈 Football – Tennessee Titans (NFL)

• Tennessee Titans – Though located in Nashville, the Titans are the most popular NFL team among Olive Branch and greater Mississippi-area fans. The team moved from Houston and began playing in Tennessee in 1997. They reached the Super Bowl in 1999 and continue to be competitive in the AFC South. Fans have rallied behind stars like Steve McNair, Derrick Henry, and Ryan Tannehill.

⚽ Soccer – Memphis 901 FC (USL Championship)

• Memphis 901 FC – Founded in 2018, Memphis 901 FC plays in the USL Championship, the second tier of American professional soccer. Matches are played in AutoZone Park, and the team has built a growing fanbase in the region. It provides a great local soccer experience for fans in Olive Branch without traveling far.

🏒 Hockey – Mississippi RiverKings (Defunct, SPHL)

• Mississippi RiverKings – The RiverKings were a popular minor league hockey team that played in Southaven, just minutes from Olive Branch. They competed in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) until ceasing operations in 2018. While no longer active, the team left behind a strong legacy and many memories for local fans.

Olive Branch, Mississippi is more than just a suburb of Memphis—it’s a city full of charm, history, and community spirit. From impressive rankings to famous neighbors, here are some fun facts about this growing southern gem:

1. One of the Fastest Growing Cities – Olive Branch was once ranked as the fastest-growing city in the U.S. by the U.S. Census Bureau in the early 2000s.
2. From Farmland to Boomtown – Originally a quiet farming town, Olive Branch has grown rapidly thanks to its location just outside Memphis.
3. Aviation Destination – The city is home to the Olive Branch Airport, a busy spot for private and corporate aircraft in the region.
4. A Historic Start – Olive Branch was founded in 1836 and got its peaceful name from a church that hoped for harmony in the community.
5. DeSoto County’s Star – It’s the largest city in DeSoto County and a major part of northern Mississippi’s growth.
6. Family Friendly – With good schools, low crime, and parks, Olive Branch has been ranked one of America’s best places to raise a family.
7. Close to Elvis – Olive Branch is just minutes from Graceland, home of Elvis Presley, and many residents feel a personal connection to his Memphis legacy.
8. Great Food Scene – From classic Southern barbecue to catfish joints, Olive Branch offers tasty comfort food that locals love.
9. Outdoorsy Fun – The city has plenty of green spaces like Olive Branch City Park with walking trails, lakes, and sports fields for all ages.
10. Home of the Conquistadors – The local high school teams are known as the Olive Branch Conquistadors, showing off the city’s spirited pride.