Tupelo, MS demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
37,791
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,257/yr
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
17,578
0.0% year-over-year change

Tupelo population

How many people live in Tupelo

Tupelo is home to 37,791 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47% of Tupelo locals are male, and 53% are female.

Total population
37,791
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47%
17,762
Female
53%
20,029
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,762 47% 0.5%
Female 20,029 53% -0.6%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Tupelo is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.9% are children under 15, then 13.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.7% of the population, while another 24.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.9%
15 to 24
13.6%
25 to 44
25.7%
45 to 64
24.9%
Over 65
17%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,141 18.9% -6.4%
15 to 24 5,132 13.6% 8.9%
25 to 44 9,706 25.7% -3.7%
45 to 64 9,394 24.9% 0.8%
Over 65 6,418 17% 5.4%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Tupelo, 95.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 52.7% of locals are Caucasian, 37.9% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.6% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
2.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 36,250 95.9% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 536 1.4% 19.1%
Non-citizens 1,005 2.7% 19.5%
Racial breakdown
White
52.7%
Black or African American
37.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.6%
Two or more races
4%
Other
2.7%
Value Percent
White 19,918 52.7%
Black or African American 14,317 37.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 136 0.4%
Asian 641 1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 234 0.6%
Two or more races 1,512 4%
Other 1,033 2.7%

Households in Tupelo

A peek inside Tupelo households

Tupelo has 15,553 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.2% are families, while the remaining 37.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,553
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,883
Family households
9,670
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,883 37.8% 3.2%
Family households 9,670 62.2% 0.5%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Tupelo

The housing landscape of Tupelo

Tupelo's housing consists of 17,578 units, with 69.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 2.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
17,578
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,226 69.6%
1 unit, attached 361 2%
2 units 1,069 6.1%
3 or 4 units 877 5%
5 to 9 units 743 4.2%
10 to 19 units 635 3.6%
20 to 49 units 209 1.2%
50 or more units 1,096 6.2%
Mobile home 362 2.1%
Homes built since 2020
335
207.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Tupelo

In Tupelo, the median construction year is 1981. About 5.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 916 5.2% -0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 414 2.4% -8.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,030 5.9% -9.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,459 14% 11.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,596 20.5% 0.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,555 14.5% -10.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,462 14% -1.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,928 11% -4.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,883 10.7% 4.6%
Built in 2020 or later 335 1.9% 207.3%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Tupelo occupancy rates

Out of the 15,553 occupied housing units in Tupelo, 63.4% are owner-occupied, while 36.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,553
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,688
Owner occupied
9,865
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,688 36.6% -0.5%
Owner occupied 9,865 63.4% 2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
11.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Tupelo housing costs

Housing costs in Tupelo come to a median of $1,013 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $976.

Median housing costs per month
$1,013/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Tupelo
$976/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Tupelo

Tupelo education at a glance

About 33.3% of the population in Tupelo went to high school, while 21.4% pursued college studies. Another 10.3% earned an associate degree and 20% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 997 3.5% 0.0%
High school diploma 9,573 33.3% 8.2%
College diploma 6,155 21.4% -4.9%
Associate degree 2,975 10.3% -4.6%
Bachelor's degree 5,757 20% 1.9%
Graduate degree 3,326 11.6% -5.8%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Tupelo

How much people earn in Tupelo

The average annual household income in Tupelo was $91,334 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,257, reflecting a -0.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Tupelo
$91,334/year
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Tupelo
$66,257/year
-0.1% year-over-year change

Tupelo income by age

In Tupelo, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,368. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $72,202 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $25,097, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,584 in earnings. Overall, 84.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $25,097 -31.4%
25 - 44 $72,368 -3.8%
45 - 64 $72,202 -1.8%
Over 65 $47,584 -0.8%
Above poverty level
30,939
Below poverty level
5,486
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,939 84.9% -1.8%
Below poverty level 5,486 15.1% 8.0%

Average renter income in Tupelo

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Tupelo, their median household income was $36,866 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$36,866
Rent-to-income ratio
31.8%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Tupelo

Workforce and job types in Tupelo

The job market in Tupelo is powered by 17,517 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.9% run their own businesses, 69.2% are employed by private companies, and 9.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,517
-1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
12,870
Blue collar
4,647
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,870 73.5% -1.0%
Blue collar 4,647 26.5% -2.8%
Employer type
Self employees
9.9%
Private companies
69.2%
Governmental workers
9.4%
Not for profit companies
11.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,730 9.9% 15.3%
Private companies 12,123 69.2% -4.8%
Governmental workers 1,651 9.4% -10.6%
Not for profit companies 2,013 11.5% 18.0%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
1.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Tupelo stands at 5.2%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Tupelo

How people get around in Tupelo

Commuting methods vary: 91.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,166 91.8% -2.3%
Taxicab 93 0.5% 8.1%
Bus or trolleybus 49 0.3% 0.0%
Bicycle 28 0.2% 75.0%
Walk 152 0.9% 102.7%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Tupelo by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
38801 29,858 11,583 $62,946 $83,560
38804 16,693 6,978 $64,420 $92,995

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FAQs about Tupelo demographics 

What is the total population of Tupelo?

Tupelo has a total population of 37,791 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Tupelo?

The gender ratio in Tupelo is as follows:
  • 47% males (17,762 residents)
  • 53% females (20,029 residents)

What is the median age in Tupelo?

The median age in Tupelo is 38.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Tupelo?

The age distribution in Tupelo is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.9% (7,141 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.6% (5,132 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.7% (9,706 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.9% (9,394 residents)
  • Over 65: 17% (6,418 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Tupelo?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Tupelo is as follows:
  • White: 52.7% (19,918 residents)
  • Black or African American: 37.9% (14,317 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (136 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (641 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.6% (234 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4% (1,512 residents)
  • Other: 2.7% (1,033 residents)

What percentage of the population in Tupelo are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.9% of the population in Tupelo.

How many housing units are there in Tupelo?

There are 17,578 housing units in Tupelo, reflecting a +0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Tupelo and what is the average household size?

Tupelo has a total of 15,553 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Tupelo?

Tupelo has a median household income of $66,257, representing a -0.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Tupelo?

The employment rate is 94.8% in Tupelo, with a workforce of 17,517 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.5% (12,870 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.5% (4,647 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.9% (1,730 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.2% (12,123 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.4% (1,651 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.5% (2,013 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025