Map of Tupelo, United States

Tupelo, Mississippi, is a city that beautifully blends its rich historical roots with a vibrant cultural scene. Known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, Tupelo attracts music enthusiasts from around the world. The city is also recognized for its charming Southern hospitality and a growing economy that includes industries such as manufacturing and healthcare.

In recent years, Tupelo has seen a resurgence in local arts and community events, making it a lively place to live and visit. The city's commitment to preserving its historical sites while fostering new cultural developments makes it a unique destination in the United States.

Climate
84.30
About this index
Healthcare
63.89
About this index
Traffic
141.82
About this index
Pollution
20.46
About this index

History and Culture

Tupelo's history dates back to its founding in 1870, originally known as Gum Pond due to the dense gum trees in the area. The city played a significant role during the Civil War, serving as a strategic location for Confederate forces.

The most notable figure from Tupelo is undoubtedly Elvis Presley, born here in 1935. His childhood home is now a museum and a major tourist attraction, drawing fans from all over the globe. This connection to the King of Rock 'n' Roll has deeply influenced the city's cultural identity.

Tupelo is home to several cultural institutions, including the Tupelo Automobile Museum and the GumTree Museum of Art. The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Tupelo Elvis Festival, celebrating its musical heritage.

The city's cultural fabric is enriched by its diverse community, contributing to a vibrant mix of traditions and celebrations. This diversity is reflected in local cuisine, music, and art, making Tupelo a culturally dynamic city.

Things to do in Tupelo

Visitors to Tupelo can explore the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum, a must-see for any music fan. The site includes the humble two-room house where Elvis was born, a museum, and a memorial chapel.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the Natchez Trace Parkway, which offers scenic drives, hiking, and biking trails. The parkway is a historical path that extends from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee, providing a glimpse into the region's natural beauty.

The Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo is another popular attraction, offering a chance to see a variety of animals and enjoy family-friendly activities. The park is home to buffalo, giraffes, and other exotic animals.

For those interested in history and automobiles, the Tupelo Automobile Museum showcases a vast collection of classic cars, providing insight into the evolution of automotive design.

Worldwide
United States

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 Tupelo

Tupelo, 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 56 inches (1422 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 65°F (18°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 65°F (18°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 65°F (18°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 65°F (18°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, Tupelo's climate offers a mix of hot, humid summers and mild winters, with moderate to high rainfall distributed throughout the year.

Tupelo's Political Climate

Conservative with emerging progressive influences

Tupelo, located in Mississippi, United States, is a city with a rich political history and a dynamic political climate. As the birthplace of Elvis Presley, it holds a unique cultural significance, which often influences its political and social landscape. The city is governed by a mayor-council system, where the mayor is elected separately from the city council. This structure allows for a balance of power and a diverse representation of the city's residents.

Historically, Tupelo has leaned towards conservative political affiliations, reflecting the broader political tendencies of Mississippi. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift towards more progressive policies, particularly in areas such as education reform and community development. The city has been proactive in implementing sustainability initiatives, aiming to enhance environmental conservation and promote green energy solutions.

Tupelo's political climate is also shaped by its economic strategies, focusing on attracting new businesses and supporting local entrepreneurship. This economic focus is intertwined with social policies that aim to improve the quality of life for all residents, addressing issues such as healthcare access and affordable housing. The city's leadership is keen on fostering a community that is both economically vibrant and socially inclusive.

Recent political events in Tupelo include increased civic engagement, with local movements advocating for social justice and equality gaining momentum. These movements have influenced policy discussions and have led to a more engaged and informed electorate. The city's political landscape continues to evolve, reflecting the changing priorities and values of its residents.

Political Quick Facts
Voter Turnout - 65%
City Governance - Mayor-Council system
Composition - Majority Republican with a growing Democratic presence
Recent Political Changes - Increased focus on sustainability and social justice initiatives
Engagement - High, with active community participation in local governance
Political Scorecard - B+ for governance and transparency
Legislative Priorities - Education reform, Economic development, Environmental sustainability
Public Opinion - Generally conservative with a growing support for progressive policies
Notable Political Figures
  • Jason Shelton - Former Mayor known for his focus on economic development and community engagement.
  • Robyn Tannehill - Current Mayor recognized for her efforts in promoting sustainability and inclusivity.
  • Trent Kelly - U.S. Representative with significant influence in local and national politics.
Tupelo

Quick Facts

Population
38,800
Median Age
36.5 yrs
Median Household Income
$45,000
Median Home Price
$165,000
Avg Rent Prices
$850
Unemployment Rate
4.2%
Avg commute time
18.5 mins
Avg High Temps
76° F
Avg Low Temps
52° F
Annual Rainfall
55 inches
Tupelo

"Key Takeaways"

Tupelo is renowned as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, with a strong musical heritage.

The city offers a mix of historical attractions and modern cultural events, appealing to diverse interests.

Outdoor activities are abundant, with the Natchez Trace Parkway providing scenic routes and trails.