Starkville Crowned Best Small Town in the South, Combining Southern Charm and Rich History

Starkville: The Best Small Town in the South!

Hold onto your cowbells, folks! Starkville, Mississippi, has just been crowned the “best small town in the South” by a recent ranking. Yes, you heard that right! Starkville has come out on top! With a cozy population of just over 24,000, this lovely little town beat out its larger neighbors and other iconic small towns to grab the golden crown.

A Glimpse at the Rankings

Now, let’s paint a picture of what made Starkville so special in the eyes of the judges. The towns on this list were chosen for their “relaxing getaways, cultural immersion, outdoor adventures and culinary delights”; all while keeping the population under 25,000. Pretty impressive, don’t you think?

The results are in! Here are the top ten best small towns that made the cut:

1. Starkville, Mississippi
2. Natchez, Mississippi
3. Ocean Springs, Mississippi
4. Abbeville, Louisiana
5. Toccoa, Georgia
6. Aiken, South Carolina
7. Franklin, Tennessee
8. Fairhope, Alabama
9. Fayetteville, Arkansas
10. Oxford, Mississippi

Starkville’s Winning Combination

But what really helped Starkville shine above the rest? While many may associate it with SEC football fever, thanks to its close ties with Mississippi State University and its famously spirited bulldog mascot, there’s so much more to this town. Starkville is a place bursting with southern charm, rich arts, and a significant history.

One of the standout features is the thriving arts scene that offers everything from cozy galleries to stunning performance spaces. Those who enjoy a stroll through history will find multiple historic districts in Starkville that capture the essence of the South.

Explore the Historical Sites

Don’t skip the renowned Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library. It’s described as a “treasure trove of artifacts and correspondence” and serves as a hub of rich American history that offers a peek into the past. How cool is that?

And let’s not forget about the mouthwatering food scene that Starkville has to offer. With a variety of charming eateries and cozy cafes, it’s the perfect spot to indulge in some classic Southern cuisine. Just imagine biting into a juicy biscuit or relishing a bowl of homemade gumbo while soaking up the friendly atmosphere.

Rival Towns Left in the Dust

While Starkville’s win is extraordinary, it’s interesting to note how it left other popular small towns like Natchez and Ocean Springs out of the limelight. Especially when considering that Oxford, often a favorite in these types of rankings, couldn’t qualify because its population exceeds 27,000. Just a hair too large!

With all this charm and recognition, it’s clear why Starkville is making waves in the Southern small-town scene. It serves as a reminder that a large population is not necessary to create a captivating community. Instead, it’s about the vibrant culture, delightful food, and historical treasures that make a place truly special.

Final Thoughts

Starkville offers a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and yes, even some football spirit, making it a true gem in the South.