UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
| liv score 543 How We Calculate Our Data |
|
|---|---|
| Civics | 81 |
| Demographics | 42 |
| Economy | 53 |
| Education | 52 |
| Health | 51 |
| Housing | 46 |
| Infrastructure | 49 |
#76. Oxford, MS
Home to the University of Mississippi, Oxford is a picturesque college town that has a deep appreciation of literature, football and fine dining. Historic Oxford Square is the city’s central location which is packed full of unique restaurants and shops — including Neilson’s, the oldest department store in the South.
Additionally, Oxford is famous for being home to many literary legends, including William Faulkner, John Grisham and famed sportswriter Wright Thompson. This little town is anything but sleepy.
Local Obsession: The Grove. During the fall, people flock to the famed tailgating spot to watch the Ole Miss Rebels.
Climate Described in 6 Words or Less: Summers are long and hot.
Top Industries: Thanks to Ole Miss, education jobs are the most plentiful in Oxford, but manufacturing is another key player.
Local Dream Job: Groundskeeper at Rowan Oak, William Faulkner’s family home
Quintessential Meal: Stop by Bottletree Bakery for a piece of Apple Ruffle Tart, which Oprah once called the best apple pie in the country!
Favorite Weekend Activity: Meeting up with friends at Funky’s. The funky spot (see, it lives up to its name!) serves up New York-style pizza and delicious daiquiris. Favorites include the ‘Skinny Bitch’ and ‘Taylor Swift.’
After-Work Meetup Spot: Swing by Oxford’s famed Snackbar, not only do they have a killer wine list, there are near daily specials on oysters and cocktails.
Beloved Bookstore: We’d be remiss if we didn’t give Square Books the title of the most beloved bookstore in Oxford (honestly, it’s one of the most beloved bookstores in the whole country!). Spanning three buildings, Square Books truly has something for everyone and is a must-visit spot for bibliophiles.
Free Way to Have Fun: Stroll along the Bailey’s Woods Trail, which connects Rowan Oak to the University Museum. After, pop inside the museum, which hosts many unique exhibitions throughout the year.
Hidden Gem: Oxford’s Double Decker Arts Festival is a local favorite. The annual festival celebrates Oxford’s thriving arts scene and includes local artists, delicious food and live music. This year’s concert features Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit.
– Cara Sanders
Read More:
Why Oxford is a Great Place to Live