Forrest County, MS demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
78,272
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,640/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
33,753
0.2% year-over-year change

Forrest County population

How many people live in Forrest County

Forrest County is home to 78,272 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.8% of Forrest County locals are male, and 53.2% are female.

Total population
78,272
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.8%
36,663
Female
53.2%
41,609
Value Percent YoY change
Male 36,663 46.8% 0.5%
Female 41,609 53.2% 0.1%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Forrest County is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 20.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.9% of the population, while another 21.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
32
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
20.5%
25 to 44
25.9%
45 to 64
21.1%
Over 65
13.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 14,752 18.8% -0.4%
15 to 24 16,031 20.5% 1.4%
25 to 44 20,238 25.9% -0.5%
45 to 64 16,500 21.1% 0.6%
Over 65 10,751 13.7% 1.0%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Forrest County, 96.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 56.6% of locals are Caucasian, 35.5% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.9%
Non-citizens
2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 75,239 96.1% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,460 1.9% 12.9%
Non-citizens 1,573 2% 10.8%
Racial breakdown
White
56.6%
Black or African American
35.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
5.4%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 44,272 56.6%
Black or African American 27,807 35.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 156 0.2%
Asian 760 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 165 0.2%
Two or more races 4,203 5.4%
Other 909 1.2%

Households in Forrest County

A peek inside Forrest County households

Forrest County has 30,127 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.2% are families, while the remaining 37.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
30,127
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
11,389
Family households
18,738
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 11,389 37.8% -0.2%
Family households 18,738 62.2% 2.4%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Forrest County

The housing landscape of Forrest County

Forrest County's housing consists of 33,753 units, with 62.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.5% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 9.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
33,753
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 21,148 62.7%
1 unit, attached 516 1.5%
2 units 736 2.2%
3 or 4 units 1,729 5.1%
5 to 9 units 2,198 6.5%
10 to 19 units 1,726 5.1%
20 to 49 units 1,181 3.5%
50 or more units 1,080 3.2%
Mobile home 3,275 9.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 164 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
433
81.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Forrest County

In Forrest County, the median construction year is 1982. About 6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,033 6% -6.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,970 5.8% -4.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,952 8.8% 0.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,836 11.4% -6.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,234 15.5% 0.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,052 12% -0.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,540 13.4% -0.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,086 15.1% -0.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,617 10.7% 12.2%
Built in 2020 or later 433 1.3% 81.2%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Forrest County occupancy rates

Out of the 30,127 occupied housing units in Forrest County, 57.2% are owner-occupied, while 42.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
30,127
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
12,903
Owner occupied
17,224
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 12,903 42.8% 1.1%
Owner occupied 17,224 57.2% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
10.7%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Forrest County housing costs

Housing costs in Forrest County come to a median of $925 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $972.

Median housing costs per month
$925/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Forrest County
$972/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Forrest County

Forrest County education at a glance

About 33.3% of the population in Forrest County went to high school, while 26.6% pursued college studies. Another 11.8% earned an associate degree and 15.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,192 2% -2.9%
High school diploma 20,157 33.3% -1.5%
College diploma 16,102 26.6% 0.8%
Associate degree 7,132 11.8% -2.0%
Bachelor's degree 9,556 15.8% 5.2%
Graduate degree 6,360 10.5% 2.3%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Forrest County

How much people earn in Forrest County

The average annual household income in Forrest County was $78,383 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $53,640, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Forrest County
$78,383/year
5.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Forrest County
$53,640/year
1.6% year-over-year change

Forrest County income by age

In Forrest County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $56,154. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,862 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $35,216, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,275 in earnings. Overall, 79.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $35,216 24.6%
25 - 44 $56,154 -1.5%
45 - 64 $67,862 12.4%
Over 65 $49,275 -7.2%
Above poverty level
57,944
Below poverty level
15,026
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 57,944 79.4% 0.6%
Below poverty level 15,026 20.6% -1.8%

Employment in Forrest County

Workforce and job types in Forrest County

The job market in Forrest County is powered by 36,309 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 68.1% are employed by private companies, and 17.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
36,309
-0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
27,522
Blue collar
8,787
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 27,522 75.8% -1.9%
Blue collar 8,787 24.2% 2.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
68.1%
Governmental workers
17.6%
Not for profit companies
5.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,243 8.9% 10.3%
Private companies 24,734 68.1% -0.2%
Governmental workers 6,372 17.6% -5.3%
Not for profit companies 1,960 5.4% -9.3%
Unemployment rate
6.7%
6.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Forrest County stands at 6.7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Forrest County

How people get around in Forrest County

In Forrest County, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 31,679 88.7% -1.4%
Taxicab 38 0.1% 15.2%
Bus or trolleybus 106 0.3% -38.7%
Motorcycle 51 0.1% 50.0%
Bicycle 205 0.6% -20.5%
Walk 785 2.2% 41.2%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Forrest County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
39401 42,531 17,826 $41,127 $60,641
39402 44,620 17,658 $75,220 $109,814
39406 1,935 0 $0 $0
39425 1,921 631 $69,525 $93,519
39455 7,937 3,125 $54,206 $73,112
39465 22,882 7,995 $74,035 $91,149
39475 14,530 5,686 $63,887 $89,970
39577 10,224 3,901 $50,938 $68,428

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FAQs about Forrest County demographics 

What is the total population of Forrest County?

Forrest County has a total population of 78,272 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Forrest County?

The gender ratio in Forrest County is as follows:
  • 46.8% males (36,663 residents)
  • 53.2% females (41,609 residents)

What is the median age in Forrest County?

The median age in Forrest County is 32.

What is the age distribution of the population in Forrest County?

The age distribution in Forrest County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (14,752 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 20.5% (16,031 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.9% (20,238 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.1% (16,500 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.7% (10,751 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Forrest County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Forrest County is as follows:
  • White: 56.6% (44,272 residents)
  • Black or African American: 35.5% (27,807 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (156 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (760 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (165 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.4% (4,203 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (909 residents)

What percentage of the population in Forrest County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.1% of the population in Forrest County.

How many housing units are there in Forrest County?

There are 33,753 housing units in Forrest County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Forrest County and what is the average household size?

Forrest County has a total of 30,127 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Forrest County?

Forrest County has a median household income of $53,640, representing a +1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Forrest County?

The employment rate is 93.3% in Forrest County, with a workforce of 36,309 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.8% (27,522 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.2% (8,787 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (3,243 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.1% (24,734 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.6% (6,372 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.4% (1,960 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025