Map of Starkville, United States

Starkville, located in the heart of Mississippi, is a city that beautifully blends Southern charm with a vibrant academic atmosphere. Known as the home of Mississippi State University, Starkville is a hub of educational excellence and innovation. The city offers a unique mix of cultural heritage, modern amenities, and a welcoming community spirit.

In recent years, Starkville has seen a growth in its tech and research sectors, largely driven by the university's influence. This has attracted a diverse population, contributing to the city's dynamic cultural landscape. With its rich history, lively arts scene, and numerous recreational opportunities, Starkville is a city that offers something for everyone.

Climate
86.92
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Healthcare
27.78
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Traffic
9.65
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Property
7.27
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History and Culture

Starkville's history dates back to the early 19th century when it was first settled. The city played a significant role during the Civil War and has since evolved into a center of education and culture in Mississippi. The presence of Mississippi State University has been pivotal in shaping the city's identity, fostering a culture of learning and innovation.

Culturally, Starkville is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues. The city hosts several annual events, such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, which celebrates local artists and musicians. Starkville's cultural fabric is enriched by its diverse population, with various ethnic communities contributing to the city's unique traditions and celebrations.

Notable landmarks include the historic Starkville Depot and the Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum, which offer insights into the city's past. The university itself is a cultural landmark, with its beautiful campus and numerous public events that draw visitors from across the region.

Things to do in Starkville

Starkville offers a wide range of activities and attractions for residents and visitors alike. The city's parks and recreational areas, such as the Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge, provide opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the natural beauty of Mississippi.

For those interested in culture and the arts, the Starkville Community Theatre and the Mississippi State University Riley Center host a variety of performances and exhibitions throughout the year. The city's dining scene is also noteworthy, with local restaurants offering a taste of Southern cuisine and hospitality.

Annual events like the Bulldog Bash, one of the largest outdoor concerts in the state, and the Starkville Christmas Parade, add to the city's vibrant community life. These events, along with the city's welcoming atmosphere, make Starkville a delightful place to explore and enjoy.

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Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for the United States reflect how livable a city in United States is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

Best to WorstUpdated: Dec, 2024
Full Quality of Life Rankings

Weather in Starkville

Starkville, MS, United States experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 55 inches (1400 mm), with March being the wettest month, averaging around 6 inches (152 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 66°F (19°C) in March to 82°F (28°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 6 inches (152 mm).
  • Summer (June to August) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 66°F (19°C) in March to 82°F (28°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 6 inches (152 mm).
  • Autumn (September to November) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 66°F (19°C) in March to 82°F (28°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 6 inches (152 mm).
  • Winter (December to February) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 66°F (19°C) in March to 82°F (28°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 6 inches (152 mm).
Notable Weather Events
  • Occasional severe thunderstorms during spring and summer.
  • Rare occurrences of snow or ice storms in winter.
  • Potential for heatwaves during the peak of summer.
Overall, Starkville's climate offers a mix of hot, humid summers and mild winters, with moderate rainfall distributed throughout the year.

Starkville's Political Climate

Conservative with progressive influences

Starkville, located in Mississippi, United States, is a city with a dynamic political climate that reflects both its historical roots and modern aspirations. As the home of Mississippi State University, Starkville has a unique blend of traditional Southern values and progressive academic influences. This duality is evident in its governance and political affiliations, where local leadership often balances conservative policies with innovative initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth and social development.

Historically, Starkville has been a stronghold of conservative politics, which is typical of many cities in Mississippi. However, the presence of a large student population has introduced more liberal perspectives into the political discourse. This has led to a more diverse political landscape, where issues such as education reform, economic development, and infrastructure improvements are hotly debated.

In recent years, Starkville has made strides in implementing progressive policies, particularly in areas like sustainability and social justice. The city has launched initiatives to improve public transportation and reduce carbon emissions, reflecting a growing commitment to environmental stewardship. Additionally, Starkville has been at the forefront of advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, being one of the first cities in Mississippi to pass a resolution supporting equality.

The political climate in Starkville significantly influences its economic, social, and environmental decisions. The city's leadership is focused on creating a vibrant community that attracts businesses and residents alike. This is evident in their legislative priorities, which include enhancing educational opportunities, supporting local businesses, and improving public infrastructure.

Political Quick Facts
Voter Turnout - 58%
City Governance - Mayor-Council government
Composition - Majority Republican with Democratic minority
Recent Political Changes - Adoption of a city-wide sustainability plan and increased funding for public education
Engagement - Moderate to high, with active participation from both students and long-term residents
Political Scorecard - B+ for governance and transparency
Legislative Priorities - Education reform, Economic development, Infrastructure improvements
Public Opinion - Generally conservative with growing liberal influence due to the university population
Notable Political Figures
  • Lynn Spruill - Current Mayor known for her efforts in promoting economic development and sustainability.
  • Gary Jackson - Former Mayor who played a significant role in modernizing the city's infrastructure.
  • Lisa Wynn - City Council member and advocate for educational reform and social justice initiatives.
Starkville

Quick Facts

Population
25,888
Median Age
27.1 yrs
Median Household Income
$35,900
Median Home Price
$175,000
Avg Rent Prices
$850
Unemployment Rate
4.2%
Avg commute time
17.5 mins
Avg High Temps
76° F
Avg Low Temps
52° F
Annual Rainfall
55 inches
Starkville

"Key Takeaways"

Starkville's tech and research sectors are growing, driven by Mississippi State University.

The city is known for its vibrant arts scene and annual cultural festivals.

Starkville offers numerous recreational opportunities, from parks to local dining experiences.