Cities and Towns in Oktibbeha County, Mississippi
Founded in 1833, Oktibbeha County is one of 82 counties in the state of Mississippi. Historically, Oktibbeha County was formed from Lowndes County. The city of Starkville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 105, Oktibbeha County has a population of 51,842 and area of 458 square miles (1,186 km²).
List of all cities in Oktibbeha County, MS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Adaton, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Bells School, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Blackjack, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Bradley, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Clayton Village, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Craig Springs, MS | 39769 | 662 |
| Hickory Grove, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Longview, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Mississippi State University, MS | 39762 | 662 |
| Morgantown, MS | 39769 | 662 |
| Ms State University, MS | 39762 | 662 |
| MSU, MS | 39762 | 662 |
| Muldrow, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Oktoc, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Osborn, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Patrick, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Rocky Hill, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Sessums, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| Starkville, MS | 39759 | 662 |
| 39760 | 662 | |
| State College, MS | 39762 | 662 |
| Sturgis, MS | 39769 | 662 |
Major Cities and Towns in Oktibbeha County, Mississippi
Oktibbeha County is located in northeastern Mississippi and is known for its vibrant history, diverse communities, and as the home of Mississippi State University. The county is a mix of rural towns and urban centers, with Starkville serving as the county seat and the largest city. The county is historically significant and has contributed to the development of the region, with its economy driven by agriculture, education, and technology. Below, we explore the major cities and towns within Oktibbeha County, providing details on their history, schools, and notable landmarks.
Starkville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 22.9 square miles
- Population: 28,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39759
- Latitude: 33.4503° N
- Longitude: 88.8191° W
Location and History
Starkville is the largest city in Oktibbeha County and serves as the county seat. Located in the northeastern part of Mississippi, Starkville is known for its educational, cultural, and economic significance, primarily due to Mississippi State University (MSU), one of the state’s largest universities. The city was founded in 1830 and named after Levi Stark, an early settler. Originally an agricultural town, Starkville became an educational and commercial center following the establishment of MSU in 1878. The presence of the university has significantly shaped the city’s development, contributing to its economy and cultural offerings. Historically, Starkville played a role in the cotton industry during the 19th century, and it also served as a key transportation hub during the railroad era. The city has continued to grow in recent decades, with a diversified economy that includes higher education, retail, and technology. The influx of students, faculty, and university-related businesses has transformed Starkville into a modern, vibrant city with a youthful energy.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Starkville is home to Mississippi State University, a flagship institution in the state that offers a wide range of academic programs, including agriculture, engineering, and business. The university also plays a central role in the city’s cultural life, with Davis Wade Stadium (home of the MSU Bulldogs football team) and the Mississippi State University Libraries being key landmarks. The Starkville School District serves the K-12 educational needs of the city and includes schools like Starkville High School and Southeast Elementary School. The city is also home to cultural landmarks such as the Starkville Depot, a historic railroad station, and The Cotton District, an area known for its unique architectural style, dining, and shopping. Starkville’s Downtown is bustling with local restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, contributing to the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The Starkville Community Theatre and The Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum further enhance the city’s cultural offerings. The annual Cotton District Arts Festival showcases local talent and the arts, attracting visitors from around the region. Starkville is a blend of tradition and modernity, with a strong university influence and a growing business scene.
Mississippi State University (MSU)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 4,200 acres (campus)
- Population: Approximately 22,000 students
- Zip Code: 39762 (MSU)
- Latitude: 33.4537° N
- Longitude: 88.7690° W
Location and History
Though not a traditional town or city, Mississippi State University is an integral part of Oktibbeha County and deserves mention due to its profound impact on the region. Located in Starkville, MSU was founded in 1878 as the Mississippi Agricultural and Mechanical College and remains the largest university in the state. The university has played a central role in Starkville’s growth, bringing both economic and cultural development to the area. MSU has grown from a small agricultural school to a major research institution with a global reach, especially in fields like engineering, veterinary medicine, and agriculture. Over the years, MSU has produced influential leaders, scholars, and professionals, contributing significantly to the state’s economy and workforce. MSU also has a strong athletic presence, particularly in football, basketball, and baseball, with its Bulldogs representing the university in major collegiate competitions.
Schools and Major Landmarks
MSU is home to numerous academic departments, research facilities, and resources for students. The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Bagley College of Engineering, and College of Business are particularly prominent. The university also boasts cutting-edge research centers in areas like aerospace engineering, veterinary science, and forestry. Athletic facilities like Davis Wade Stadium, Humphrey Coliseum, and Dudy Noble Field are iconic landmarks on campus, drawing large crowds for sporting events. The MSU Golf Course and the Mississippi State University Libraries are also notable. MSU’s Starkville Campus is known for its stunning architecture, with historic buildings like the Old Main Academic Building blending with modern structures like the Rethmann Building. The Mississippi Horse Park, located nearby, is a key venue for equestrian events and competitions. MSU’s influence extends far beyond the campus, making it a central part of the Starkville and Oktibbeha County community.
Maben
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.9 square miles
- Population: 700 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39750
- Latitude: 33.3242° N
- Longitude: 88.6861° W
Location and History
Maben is a small town located in the southeastern part of Oktibbeha County, approximately 10 miles east of Starkville. The town was founded in the late 19th century and was originally a railroad community. Maben is named after Maben M. McCool, a prominent local figure in the town’s early development. The town’s economy has traditionally been rooted in agriculture, with cotton and soybeans being the primary crops. Maben’s history is tied to the broader history of the Mississippi Delta, with many residents still involved in farming and agricultural pursuits. In the 20th century, Maben became known for its small-town charm and its role as a local center for commerce and services. Today, Maben remains a quiet and rural community, with a slower pace of life compared to larger cities in the area.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Maben is served by the Oktibbeha County School District and is home to Maben Elementary School. The town’s school is a close-knit institution that serves local students and provides a sense of community. The town’s Maben Community Park offers a space for local residents to gather for picnics, outdoor sports, and recreational activities. Maben also hosts the Maben Heritage Festival each year, celebrating the town’s rich agricultural and cultural history. Though Maben is small, it is known for its strong sense of community, with a number of local businesses, churches, and organizations that support the needs of its residents. The town has maintained its rural roots while still adapting to modern times, offering a peaceful place to live just a short distance from the bustling city of Starkville.
Other Communities in Oktibbeha County
In addition to Starkville, Mississippi State University, and Maben, Oktibbeha County is home to several smaller communities, including Pelahatchie, Bradley, and Mayhew. These towns are primarily rural, with agriculture still being an important part of the economy. Mayhew and Bradley are small rural communities that offer a more relaxed lifestyle, with close proximity to Starkville providing residents with access to larger city amenities.
