Oxford’s associations with renowned author William Faulkner may be what make it so well known. Many of Faulkner’s most well-known works, such as “As I Lay Dying,” “The Sound and the Fury,” and “Absalom, Absalom,” were written while he was a resident of Oxford for a significant portion of his life. The Oxford residence of William Faulkner, Rowan Oak, is accessible for tours.
Oxford is home to a vibrant arts culture in addition to Faulkner. The annual Oxford Film Festival is held in the city and features independent movies from all over the world. The Powerhouse, a converted power plant that now houses classes, workshops, and concerts, is open all year long. A number of art galleries are also located in Oxford, one of which being Southside Gallery, which exhibits modern Southern art.
Visitors are drawn to Oxford by its culinary scene. There are several dining options in the city, ranging from exquisite dining at Saint Leo to fast food at Ajax Diner. A number of breweries, including Oxford Brewing Company and Yalobusha Brewing Company, are also located in Oxford.
Numerous publications, including Forbes and Money Magazine, have listed Oxford as one of the top locations to retire. The city is a desirable alternative for retirees due to its affordable cost of living, pleasant climate, and accessibility to healthcare. Seniors can choose from a number of lifetime learning programs offered by the University of Mississippi.
Oxford is home to the University Museum, the Lafayette County and Oxford Public Library, and a number of museums in addition to the University of Mississippi. Avent Park and Lamar Park, two parks in the city that provide walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots, are among the many others.
The racial makeup of Oxford was 69.2% White, 20.6% Black or African American, 4.8% Asian, and 4.7% Hispanic or Latino as of 2019, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The Center for Inclusion and Cross-Cultural Engagement at the University of Mississippi is one of several organizations that support diversity and inclusion that call the city home. The city also has a diverse population.
Oxford, Mississippi is a tiny city with a lot to offer, to sum up. It is a special and fascinating destination to visit or reside because of its connections to William Faulkner, vibrant arts community, and diversified population. Oxford has plenty to offer everyone, whether you’re a senior searching for a low-cost area to settle down or a young professional seeking a vibrant neighborhood.
The subject of whether living in Oxford, Mississippi is expensive is not directly addressed in the essay. However, it also point out that Oxford has cheaper living expenses than other American college cities. The article also mentions that the city has a range of reasonably priced housing alternatives for retirees, families, and students.