Tupelo, MS, United States

Capital City

With a population of just 37,923, Tupelo may seem like a sleepy Southern town, but don't be fooled - this former furniture manufacturing hub has seen its fair share of hardship. Tornado devastation in 1936 left over 200 dead, and the city has since weathered the decline of its industrial base. While Tupelo touts its status as the headquarters for two major banks, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, and severe weather remains an ever-present threat. Overall, this modest Mississippi city is best suited for those seeking a slower pace of life and a deep connection to the region's musical heritage.