Tupelo, MS Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Tupelo, MS: What You Need to Know

Tupelo, the seat of Lee County in northeast Mississippi, is known for its world-famous native son: Elvis Presley.

Things to Do in Tupelo

Every year, more than 50,000 people flock to the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum, which is part of the 15-acre Elvis Presley Park. The rock-and-roll legend was born in the two-room house on Jan. 8, 1935. Elvis lived in the house until he was 13 years old. The Natchez Trace Parkway spans 444 miles from Nashville, Tennessee, to Natchez, Mississippi. The parkway’s visitor center and headquarters are located in Tupelo. It’s a great place to enjoy a leisurely drive or go hiking, biking, boating, and camping.

Weather and Climate

Although Mississippi isn’t part of the Tornado Alley, twisters do occur in the state. On April 28, 2014, a tornado struck Tupelo, destroying homes and businesses, downing power lines and trees, and killing at least one person in the city. Tupelo usually gets 56 inches of rain a year, more than the national average of 38 inches, and just one inch of snow per year compared with the U.S. average of 28 inches.

Local History

A settlement called Harrisburg was moved two miles east to the Mobile and Ohio Railroad line in 1859. The relocated community became known as Gum Pond, but was later renamed Tupelo for the tupelo trees in the area. The tree is also known as gum tree or black gum tree. During the Civil War, the last major battle in Mississippi took place on July 14-15, 1864, in Tupelo. Union troops under Maj. Gen. A.J. Smith battled Confederate soldiers under Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest, resulting in 1,300 casualties for the Confederates.

Cost of Living

Living in Tupelo (population: 38,312) can be affordable with a little balancing act. The city’s cost of living rate and housing costs are 18.2% and 7.2% lower than the national average, but food cost is 14.7% higher than the national average. The median gross rent is $790. Mississippi’s progressive income tax of 0% to 5% is lower than the national average. The Magnolia State charges a statewide sales tax of 7%. 

Know Your Neighborhoods

Tupelo is in the “sweet spot” between a small town and a large city, according to one happy resident. Locals are mighty proud of Elvis Presley and their friendly, close-knit community. Tupelo has the highest-ranked schools in Lee County, but those who prefer the suburbs should check out Saltillo and Guntown. Both have good schools and a tranquil environment.