Oxford MS​

Oxford, Mississippi – A charming Southern gem where history, hospitality, and creativity come alive. Nestled in the rolling hills of North Mississippi, this vibrant college town blends small-town warmth with big personality. From lazy afternoons on the Square to the energy of college football Saturdays, Oxford invites you in with its rich literary legacy, mouthwatering cuisine, and a pace that lets you truly savor life.

• Population: ~27,000
• Weather: Mild winters and hot, humid summers (35–90°F); beautiful spring and fall seasons.
• Places To Visit: Rowan Oak (home of William Faulkner), The Historic Oxford Square, Ole Miss campus, University Museum, Lamar Park.
• Top Activities: Catching a Rebels game at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, browsing indie shops and bookstores, enjoying live music, and exploring local art galleries.
• Famous Food: Southern comfort fare at City Grocery, catfish and hushpuppies, crawfish boils in spring, and irresistible biscuits from Big Bad Breakfast.

Oxford, MS, best known as the home of the University of Mississippi, is a vibrant city with thriving sectors in education, healthcare, hospitality, and technology. With a growing population and strong local economy, Oxford offers a variety of rewarding career paths.

Top 5 Jobs in Oxford, MS

Oxford, Mississippi might be a small college town, but it packs a big punch when it comes to places where students can relax, recharge, and have fun. Whether you're taking a breather from classes at Ole Miss or just looking to hang out with friends, Oxford has the perfect spots to unwind.

The Square – Think of it as the heart of Oxford. With cozy coffee shops, local boutiques, and amazing restaurants, The Square is where students go to feel the energy of the town. Grab a cup of coffee at Oxford Creamery or find a tucked-away spot upstairs in Square Books and lose yourself in a good read.

Rowan Oak – Need a break from screens? This historic home of author William Faulkner offers peaceful walking trails and old-world charm. It’s quiet, pretty, and the perfect spot to find a breath of fresh air without leaving town.

Lamar Park – This beautifully landscaped park has ponds, walking trails, and lots of green space to lie back with friends or catch up on your favorite playlist. It’s a great place to stretch your legs or have an impromptu picnic.

Lake Sardis – About 25 minutes from town, this lake is a weekend escape for anyone craving sun and water. Whether you’re into kayaking, paddleboarding, or just lounging by the shoreline, this spot is a hit with students who love the outdoors.

Funkys – Craving some dancing and late-night vibes? Funkys in The Square is where students let loose after a long week. With good music and a welcoming crowd, it’s a go-to spot for weekend fun.

Volta Taverna Patio – For chill evenings with great food and even better company, Volta’s outdoor patio is a favorite. It’s low-key, affordable, and perfect for catching up with friends over Greek nachos and happy hour drinks.

The Grove – While it’s best known for football Saturdays, The Grove at Ole Miss is a beautiful green space that’s perfect any day of the week. Bring a blanket, toss a frisbee, or just lay under the shade trees between classes.

BottleTree Bakery – Comfort food meets cozy vibes. This local favorite is ideal for a quiet morning or a casual meet-up with classmates. Their fresh pastries and warm coffee make it hard to leave.

South Depot Taco Shop – Perfect for laid-back nights and casual meals, South Depot is always buzzing with students. Grab tacos, share a pitcher of margaritas (for the 21+ crowd), and dive into that no-stress college life (at least for an hour).

Proud Larry’s – Live music, good eats, and a laid-back crowd make this a staple of Oxford nightlife. From local bands to touring indie acts, you never know what kind of cool performance you’ll find here—but it’s almost always a good time.

Life in Oxford might move a little slower than in a big city, but that’s part of the magic. Whether you’re exploring downtown or just soaking up Southern charm, there’s no shortage of places to relax and enjoy your college journey here.

Oxford, Mississippi, is a vibrant college town known for its rich history, southern charm, and thriving academic community. The city’s educational landscape is shaped by exemplary public and private colleges and universities that attract students from across the country and beyond.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Oxford, MS

University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) – The flagship institution of Mississippi, Ole Miss is renowned for its strong programs in business, law, engineering, education, and the liberal arts. Its beautiful campus and spirited community make it a cornerstone of Oxford’s academic life.

Northwest Mississippi Community College – Oxford Campus – Serving students seeking two-year degrees or transfer pathways, Northwest Mississippi Community College offers quality academic and career training programs in nursing, business, and technology right in Oxford.

University of Mississippi School of Law – Part of Ole Miss, the School of Law is acclaimed for its outstanding legal education and clinical programs, preparing graduates for successful careers in the legal profession.

University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy – Consistently ranked among the nation’s top pharmacy schools, this program offers rigorous training in pharmaceutical sciences and clinical practice, contributing significantly to healthcare education in the region.

University of Mississippi School of Education – Also housed at Ole Miss, the School of Education prepares future educators, counselors, and administrators through innovative degree programs and impactful research.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Oxford, MS

Blue Mountain Christian University – Oxford Extension – This extension program offers adult and continuing education courses in Oxford, including ministry, education, and business training in a faith-based learning environment.

Strayer University – Oxford Campus (Online and Local Support) – With a virtual campus and Oxford-based resources, Strayer University provides flexible degree options in business, IT, and criminal justice for non-traditional and working students.

American Public University System – Oxford Area (Online Programs) – While online, APUS has a support presence in Oxford, offering diverse degrees in public service, business, arts, and sciences for those seeking flexible learning opportunities.

Miller-Motte College – Oxford Area (Online Programs) – Known for career-focused training, Miller-Motte delivers practical programs in healthcare, business, and technology for Oxford residents via online courses.

Belhaven University – Oxford Area (Online/Blended Programs) – This respected Christian university offers online and hybrid degree programs available to Oxford students, with a strong foundation in business, arts, and education.

Whether you’re aspiring to jumpstart your career, advance your studies, or switch disciplines, Oxford, MS, offers a welcoming educational environment with opportunities for every type of learner. The city’s institutions are committed to fostering personal growth, academic excellence, and community engagement.

Oxford, Mississippi, is not only known for its vibrant college-town charm and Southern hospitality—it's also a great place for high school education. Whether you're a parent considering options for your teen or a student looking ahead to high school, choosing the right school is an important decision. The city of Oxford offers a range of excellent public and private high schools that emphasize strong academics, extracurricular success, and character development.

Top Public High Schools in Oxford, MS

• Oxford High School – As part of the Oxford School District, this school stands out for its academic rigor and excellent college prep programs. It offers a range of Advanced Placement courses, competitive sports teams, and a strong arts program. The school is regularly ranked among the top public high schools in Mississippi.
• Lafayette High School – Serving the nearby Lafayette County School District, this school provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Known for its strong music and athletic programs, Lafayette High also pushes students toward academic excellence with honors and AP classes.
• Oxford Middle College High School – A unique public option, this school allows high school students to take college-level courses on the Northwest Mississippi Community College campus. It's designed for motivated students seeking both high school diplomas and college credits.
• Water Valley High School – Located just outside of Oxford, this small public high school fosters close-knit student-teacher relationships. It focuses on creating a well-rounded education with solid academics, athletics, and career-tech pathways.
• North Panola High School – Serving students in the wider Oxford area, this school has made significant strides in improving academic performance, offering dual enrollment opportunities and pathways for college and career readiness.

Top Private High Schools in Oxford, MS

• Oxford University School (OUS) – A highly respected private school offering rigorous academics in small class settings. OUS emphasizes character development, individualized attention, and college preparatory learning for students starting in preschool through high school grades.
• Regents School of Oxford – A Christian classical school focused on academic excellence and spiritual growth. Regents School offers a challenging curriculum rooted in the liberal arts while fostering leadership and strong moral values.
• Magnolia Montessori School – While primarily known for its lower and middle school programs, the Montessori approach provides a carefully prepared environment that fosters independence and lifelong learning, setting students up with strong academic foundations by the time they transition into high school.
• Oxford Christian Academy – This small private school provides a faith-based curriculum that supports both academic achievement and character development. With small class sizes, students receive individualized instruction and a strong sense of community.
• The Baddour Memorial Center School – Though primarily a residential facility supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities, this private school has a unique mission to help students develop vocational and life skills. For families seeking specialized educational support, it offers a nurturing and structured environment.

Oxford, MS, may be best known for Ole Miss, but it also offers young students some outstanding options right from high school. Whether you're interested in academic rigor, supportive environments, faith-based learning, or dual-credit opportunities, there's a school in Oxford ready to help your child thrive. Choosing the right path may take some research, but with options like these, you're sure to find a great fit.

While Oxford, Mississippi, is best known for its Southern charm, rich literary history, and status as home to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), this small town isn’t home to any major league professional sports teams. However, Oxford has deeply rooted college sports culture and close proximity to both regional pro sports franchises and minor league teams that keep fans cheering year-round.

Even though Oxford doesn’t have professional teams of its own, sports fans in the area don’t have to travel far to catch high-level competition in person. Here’s a look at the pro sports that Oxford roots for, from nearby cities to regional favorites across different leagues:

College Sports – Ole Miss Rebels (NCAA)

• Football – Ole Miss football is the heartbeat of Oxford sports. Vaught-Hemingway Stadium becomes a sea of red and blue on game days, with fans rallying behind the Rebels. The team has produced NFL stars like Eli Manning, A.J. Brown, and DK Metcalf. Known for their fierce competition in the SEC, the Rebels continue to make national appearances in bowl games and rankings.
• Baseball – Ole Miss baseball has grown into a powerhouse, winning the 2022 NCAA College World Series. Games at Swayze Field are a major attraction in the spring, with record attendance and highly competitive seasons.
• Basketball – Both the men's and women's teams compete in the SEC and have a strong fan base. NBA talents like Breein Tyree have helped raise the program’s profile.

Nearby Regional Professional Teams

Since Oxford is located just a short drive away from several cities with professional teams, many fans head to Memphis, New Orleans, or even Atlanta to get their pro sports fix.

• Memphis Grizzlies (NBA) – Just about 90 miles north of Oxford, the Memphis Grizzlies have become a fan favorite for Oxford residents. With young stars like Ja Morant leading the charge, they've made deep playoff runs and brought excitement to the region.
• New Orleans Saints (NFL) – The Saints are cherished across the Deep South. With their Super Bowl XLIV win in 2010 and superstars like Drew Brees, they’ve earned a loyal following that extends into North Mississippi.
• Atlanta Braves (MLB) – Although located in Georgia, the Braves enjoy fan support across the Southeast. Their 2021 World Series championship reignited excitement and their long history makes them a nostalgic favorite.

Minor League & Semi-Pro Sports

• Mississippi Braves (MiLB) – Located in Pearl, Mississippi, just over two hours south of Oxford, this Double-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves is a great spot for catching rising baseball stars before they hit the big leagues.
• Memphis Redbirds (MiLB) – Another great option for Oxford baseball fans, this Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals provides affordable, family-friendly entertainment just a short drive away in Memphis.

Soccer – Memphis 901 FC (USL Championship)

• Memphis 901 FC – Soccer is growing in popularity in the south, and Memphis 901 FC is helping lead the charge in nearby Tennessee. The team competes in the USL Championship, drawing enthusiastic local crowds, including plenty of fans from Oxford.

Although Oxford may not have professional sports teams of its own, the vibrant sports culture at the University of Mississippi and access to nearby regional teams make it an exciting place for any sports fan. Whether you're tailgating at The Grove, driving up to see the Grizzlies, or catching a minor league game, there's always something to cheer for near Oxford, MS!

Oxford, Mississippi, may be a small town, but it’s packed with charm, culture, and a rich history that makes it one of the most beloved places in the South. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, here are 10 fun facts that make Oxford, MS truly special:

1. Home of William Faulkner – The Nobel Prize-winning author lived in Oxford and wrote many of his famous works here. You can even visit his home, Rowan Oak, which has been preserved as a museum.
2. College Town Vibes – Oxford is home to the University of Mississippi, affectionately known as Ole Miss. The university brings a vibrant energy and cultural diversity to the town.
3. Game Day Glory – During football season, Oxford transforms into the ultimate tailgating hotspot. The Grove, a 10-acre green space on the Ole Miss campus, is often called the best tailgating experience in college football.
4. City of the Arts – Oxford has a thriving arts scene and is known for its literary heritage. It hosts the Oxford Conference for the Book and the Southern Foodways Symposium each year.
5. Historic Town Square – The Oxford Square is the heartbeat of the city, featuring local shops, restaurants, and the courthouse that looks like it came out of a classic Southern novel.
6. Music Is in the Air – From live bands to music festivals, Oxford has deep roots in Southern music. It’s said that the town has played host to everyone from Elvis Presley to modern indie acts.
7. Big Names, Small Town – Many famous figures have ties to Oxford, including NFL quarterback Eli Manning, who played college football at Ole Miss.
8. Delicious Eats – Oxford punches above its weight in the food scene, with James Beard Award-winning chefs and restaurants like City Grocery, serving up some of the best Southern cuisine you’ll ever taste.
9. Literary Mecca – Square Books, Oxford’s independent bookstore, is nationally recognized and has become a must-visit for book lovers across the country.
10. Filled with Festivals – Throughout the year, Oxford hosts fun community events like the Double Decker Arts Festival, where music, food, and art take over the town in the best way possible.