It’s early August. Some students are still weeks away from arriving in Oxford, MS, home of the University of Mississippi. But the rental cycle has already started for next year. In fact, I got my first call back in early July about leasing a place for August 2026.
Every year, like clockwork, the same rumor spreads: "If I don't sign a lease in October, I won't have a place to live next year." Parents hear it from their students. Students hear it from friends. And then the pressure kicks in.
Let me be clear: that’s just not true.
The Truth About the Student Rental Market in Oxford, MS
Yes, there have been tight years. In 2022 and 2023, inventory was limited. If you waited until summer to look, you didn’t have many options. But even then, you didn’t need to sign anything in October.
Fast forward to 2024, and the market started shifting. Construction began to outpace student population growth, and by 2025, we’re seeing the results: more inventory and more choices in the Oxford rental market.
Right now (August 2025), there are nearly 100 rental listings in Oxford.
About 2,000 new beds are under construction.
Even more developments are in planning stages.
You Have Time. Use It.
Some landlords and property managers will push for early lease commitments in September or October. But you don’t have to rush. In fact, plenty of properties don’t even hit the market until February.
Signing a lease too early means making decisions before you know:
Who your roommates will be
If you'll even be in Oxford next year
What other properties become available later
How to Look Smart (Not Panicked)
When you’re ready to search for student housing near Ole Miss, don’t overthink it. Just Google "For Rent Oxford MS."
Your best bet? Start with Zillow. You’ll find listings from:
Property managers
Apartment complexes
Private landlords
Also, check Realtor.com to catch anything Zillow might miss.
Right now on Zillow (as of August 2):
Properties at Church Street, Holly Hills, Rowdale, Azula, and Oxford Commons are available
Many listings indicate multiple units available, not just one-off openings
There are three-bedroom, four-bedroom, and five-bedroom homes, many with amenities like pools and new construction finishes.
Finally, sign up for our upcoming availability list, and we'll email you when a new property becomes available.
Bottom Line
There is plenty of inventory in Oxford, MS. You do not need to sign a lease in October. You do not need to commit before you're ready. And you absolutely do not need to lock in roommates you barely know.
Take your time. Focus on your fall semester at the University of Mississippi, and enjoy the year ahead without feeling pressured into early decisions.
And most importantly, don’t just follow the crowd. Just because everyone else is rushing to sign a lease doesn’t mean it’s the right move for you. Do what fits your needs, your timeline, and your future. The right place will still be waiting when you're ready.
