Sawmills have developed into a major business. A mixture of manufactured products is the earmark of Tippah County's economy today. Such manufacturing products as furniture, rubber tile and matting, shoe soles and heels, elevators, displays and fixtures, absorbents, clothing and printing offer citizens of Tippah County a wide variety of economic opportunities. Early on the residents of Ripley and surrounding areas recognized the importance of a good education for its citizens. That tradition can be seen in an excellent school system in Ripley and throughtout the county.
Today there are five high schools in the county.
The recently completed South Tippah Math and Science Complex located in Ripley is an ultra-modern education facility offering an advanced math and science curriculum to students throughout the South Tippah School District. Tippah County Lake, which opened in 1975, is a recreational park maintained by the Department of Wildlife Conservation and located just north of Ripley. This beautiful 165 acre lake allows fishing, camping, and swimming, with water skiing limited to weekends. It is a great place for outdoor family entertainment offering picnic pavilions, boat rentals and modern hoolups for RV and camping trailers. In addition Ripley has public swimming pools which are open during season.