College Towns That Have Unexpected Celebrity Connections

College towns are often known for their buzzing student life, historic campuses, and vibrant arts scenes. But beyond the academic rigor and game-day traditions, some of these towns harbor unexpected celebrity connections. Whether it’s a town that raised a superstar, served as a secret creative retreat, or became an unexpected home for famous faces, these college destinations prove that the allure of higher education extends well beyond the classroom. From small Southern enclaves to progressive West Coast hubs, here are 12 college towns with surprising celebrity ties—and the fascinating reasons why stars have been drawn to them.

1. Oxford, Mississippi – William Faulkner’s Literary Kingdom

Oxford, Mississippi, might be best known for its die-hard Ole Miss football culture, but its deeper legacy is one of literary greatness and artistic inspiration. At the heart of it all is William Faulkner, the legendary Nobel Prize-winning author who made Oxford his home. His former residence, Rowan Oak, remains one of the most treasured literary landmarks in the country, drawing writers and book lovers who admire his Southern Gothic style. The house, preserved as a museum, allows visitors to step back in time and see where Faulkner wrote some of his most iconic works, with his handwritten notes still scrawled on the walls of his study. Beyond Faulkner’s influence, Oxford has grown into a modern-day hub for writers, musicians, and creatives. John Grisham, the bestselling legal thriller author, once lived here, and his early legal career was shaped in Mississippi. The town is also home to Square Books, an independent bookstore frequently ranked among the best in the country, hosting countless readings and signings from world-famous authors.