Tupelo, MS

City Crime Score

Below avg crime

B+

Population

49,083

Median Income

$59,844

Home Value

$135,017

Median Age

37.0

Crime Statistics

Assault
115
Robbery
118
Burglary
117
Larceny/Theft
136
Vehicle Theft
128

Demographics

White: 53.7%
Black: 40.8%
Hispanic: 3.6%
Asian: 1.1%

26.6% have a bachelor's degree or higher

Housing

Owners: 56.1%
Renters: 43.9%
Crime Level
Low High
Tupelo Neighborhoods & Data

Tupelo, MS Crime Map

Explore crime rates, safest neighborhoods, and detailed crime statistics

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About Tupelo

Tupelo, MS

City Crime Score

Below average crime

B+

Population

49,083

Median Income

$59,844

Median Home Value

$135,017

Median Age

37.0

Crime Statistics

Assault
115
Robbery
118
Burglary
117
Larceny/Theft
136
Vehicle Theft
128

Demographics

White: 53.7%
Black: 40.8%
Hispanic: 3.6%
Asian: 1.1%

26.6% have a bachelor's degree or higher

Housing

Owners: 56.1%
Renters: 43.9%

Tupelo, MS Safety Overview

With a population of 38,251 and an overall crime grade of C, Tupelo sits in the middle tier of Mississippi cities when it comes to public safety — neither among the state's most dangerous communities nor its safest. That C grade reflects a city working through real challenges: a 14.5% poverty rate and 5% unemployment create conditions that historically correlate with higher crime activity, and Tupelo's numbers bear that out. Understanding where crime concentrates, and where it doesn't, is the most practical tool available to anyone living in or moving to this city.

What the Data Actually Shows

The city data available for Tupelo does not break down individual neighborhood grades or median incomes at the sub-city level, so pinpointing specific districts by letter grade or hyperlocal income figures would require going beyond what the verified dataset supports. What the city-wide numbers do confirm is that Tupelo's median household income of $54,691 and median home value of $151,224 place it in a moderate economic range for the region — and in cities with this income profile, property crime tends to outpace violent crime as the dominant safety concern. Residents and prospective buyers should use the interactive crime map to drill into block-level data that goes beyond these aggregate figures.

Property Crime vs. Violent Crime in Tupelo

Across cities with Tupelo's demographic and economic profile — mid-size Southern cities with moderate poverty rates and low population density of around 229 residents per square mile — property offenses such as vehicle break-ins, residential burglary, and retail theft typically account for the largest share of reported incidents. Violent crime, while present, tends to cluster in specific corridors rather than spreading evenly across the city. Tupelo's relatively low density works in its favor here: sprawl limits the kind of concentrated foot-traffic environments where opportunistic violent crime spikes. That said, a C overall grade signals that neither category is negligible, and complacency in lower-activity areas has a way of creating new vulnerabilities.

Using the Crime Map to Make Smarter Decisions

Tupelo's interactive crime map is most valuable when used with a specific question in mind rather than as a general browsing tool. Home buyers comparing properties near the median value of $151,224 can layer crime heat maps over listing locations to see whether a neighborhood's asking price reflects its actual risk profile. Renters evaluating apartments near the city's median rent of $795 per month can check whether a lower price point corresponds to higher incident rates in the immediate area — a pattern that appears in many mid-size cities. Daily commuters traveling through commercial corridors can identify which routes see recurring property incidents, particularly vehicle-related crimes, and adjust accordingly. The map turns aggregate statistics into street-level context, which is where safety decisions actually get made.

The Bigger Picture

A C grade for Tupelo means the city is managing crime rather than winning against it. The combination of a 14.5% poverty rate and a 5% unemployment rate creates persistent pressure points that local policing alone cannot fully resolve. Community investment, economic development, and resident engagement all factor into whether a city's crime grade improves or declines over time. For now, Tupelo offers a livable environment with real safety considerations that reward informed decision-making — and the crime map is the most direct way to move from city-wide averages to the specific, localized picture that actually affects daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tupelo safe?

Overall, Tupelo is considered a relatively safe city for residents and visitors. Like many cities, it experiences some crime, but violent crime rates are generally lower than the national average, especially in well-maintained neighborhoods. The Tupelo crime map indicates that most incidents are concentrated in specific areas, allowing residents to stay informed and cautious. The city's community policing efforts and active neighborhood associations help maintain a sense of safety. As with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep informed about local crime trends to ensure personal safety.

What is the crime rate in Tupelo?

Tupelo's crime rate is moderate compared to other cities of similar size. The city's population of around 38,000 contributes to a manageable level of crime, with property crimes being more common than violent crimes. The Tupelo crime map shows that most criminal activity occurs in specific districts, often near commercial areas or less populated neighborhoods. Overall, residents report feeling safe in well-traveled and established neighborhoods. While crime exists, it does not overshadow the city's reputation as a friendly and welcoming community, and local law enforcement works diligently to address issues promptly.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Tupelo?

Some of the safest and most well-regarded neighborhoods in Tupelo include neighborhoods around North Tupelo, such as the neighborhoods near Tupelo High School, and areas close to the Parkway and Ballard Park. These areas tend to have lower crime rates, well-maintained homes, and active community involvement. Suburbs like North Mississippi Medical Center area and certain parts of Central Tupelo are also considered safer options. While specific crime data isn't available for each neighborhood, these areas are generally known for their family-friendly environment, good schools, and strong community ties, making them popular choices for residents seeking safety and stability.

Is Tupelo a good place to live?

Yes, Tupelo is considered a good place to live for many reasons. The city offers a balanced quality of life, with a median household income of around $54,691 and affordable home prices averaging $151,224. Tupelo's low unemployment rate of 5% and its friendly community atmosphere make it attractive for families and young professionals alike. The city boasts a rich cultural scene, notable landmarks like Elvis Presley's birthplace, and numerous parks and recreational facilities. While the poverty rate is around 14.5%, the city's overall environment, community services, and proximity to outdoor activities make Tupelo a welcoming place for those seeking a friendly, affordable, and family-oriented community.