Hattiesburg, MS demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
48,619
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$46,342/yr
5.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
23,300
1.6% year-over-year change

Hattiesburg population

How many people live in Hattiesburg

Hattiesburg is home to 48,619 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.5% of Hattiesburg locals are male, and 55.5% are female.

Total population
48,619
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.5%
21,620
Female
55.5%
26,999
Value Percent YoY change
Male 21,620 44.5% -1.1%
Female 26,999 55.5% 1.3%
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 Hattiesburg is 29, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.5% are children under 15, then 25.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28% of the population, while another 17.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
29.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.5%
15 to 24
25.6%
25 to 44
28%
45 to 64
17.8%
Over 65
13.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,516 15.5% -9.3%
15 to 24 12,436 25.6% 1.3%
25 to 44 13,609 28% 0.6%
45 to 64 8,659 17.8% 2.8%
Over 65 6,399 13.2% 6.9%
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 Hattiesburg, 95.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 40.3% of locals are Caucasian, 50.6% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.9%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 46,533 95.7% 0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 923 1.9% -3.2%
Non-citizens 1,163 2.4% 14.0%
Racial breakdown
White
40.3%
Black or African American
50.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
6.4%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 19,600 40.3%
Black or African American 24,596 50.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 129 0.3%
Asian 412 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 165 0.3%
Two or more races 3,108 6.4%
Other 609 1.2%

Households in Hattiesburg

A peek inside Hattiesburg households

Hattiesburg has 20,659 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50% are families, while the remaining 50% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
20,659
2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
10,330
Family households
10,329
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 10,330 50% 2.9%
Family households 10,329 50% 1.4%
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 Hattiesburg

The housing landscape of Hattiesburg

Hattiesburg's housing consists of 23,300 units, with 49.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 1.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
23,300
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,606 49.8%
1 unit, attached 504 2.2%
2 units 523 2.2%
3 or 4 units 1,848 7.9%
5 to 9 units 2,477 10.6%
10 to 19 units 2,354 10.1%
20 to 49 units 1,888 8.1%
50 or more units 1,728 7.4%
Mobile home 340 1.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 32 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
288
93.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Hattiesburg

In Hattiesburg, the median construction year is 1981. About 7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,636 7% -7.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,661 7.1% -2.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,288 9.8% 7.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,770 11.9% 2.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,144 13.5% -3.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,686 11.5% 4.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,450 10.5% 10.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,282 14.1% -1.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,095 13.3% -0.2%
Built in 2020 or later 288 1.2% 93.3%
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.

Hattiesburg occupancy rates

Out of the 20,659 occupied housing units in Hattiesburg, 37.2% are owner-occupied, while 62.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
20,659
2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
12,971
Owner occupied
7,688
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 12,971 62.8% 1.0%
Owner occupied 7,688 37.2% 4.2%
Unoccupied housing units
11.3%
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.

Hattiesburg housing costs

Housing costs in Hattiesburg come to a median of $980 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,005.

Median housing costs per month
$980/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 Hattiesburg
$1,005/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 Hattiesburg

Hattiesburg education at a glance

About 30.1% of the population in Hattiesburg went to high school, while 27.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.8% earned an associate degree and 16.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 689 1.7% -2.8%
High school diploma 11,994 30.1% 2.1%
College diploma 10,996 27.6% 0.7%
Associate degree 4,322 10.8% -2.4%
Bachelor's degree 6,753 16.9% 12.0%
Graduate degree 5,140 12.9% 3.8%
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 Hattiesburg

How much people earn in Hattiesburg

The average annual household income in Hattiesburg was $70,912 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $46,342, reflecting a +5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Hattiesburg
$70,912/year
5.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Hattiesburg
$46,342/year
5.0% year-over-year change

Hattiesburg income by age

In Hattiesburg, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $48,722. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $63,384 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $29,309, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,380 in earnings. Overall, 72.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $29,309 17.4%
25 - 44 $48,722 3.4%
45 - 64 $63,384 21.3%
Over 65 $45,380 -4.5%
Above poverty level
31,684
Below poverty level
12,138
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 31,684 72.3% 3.0%
Below poverty level 12,138 27.7% -5.2%

Average renter income in Hattiesburg

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Hattiesburg, their median household income was $29,081 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 41.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$29,081
Rent-to-income ratio
41.5%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Hattiesburg

Workforce and job types in Hattiesburg

The job market in Hattiesburg is powered by 23,751 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 66.2% are employed by private companies, and 20.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
23,751
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
19,257
Blue collar
4,494
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 19,257 81.1% -0.5%
Blue collar 4,494 18.9% 7.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
66.2%
Governmental workers
20.3%
Not for profit companies
6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,764 7.4% 20.2%
Private companies 15,725 66.2% -0.9%
Governmental workers 4,832 20.3% 0.9%
Not for profit companies 1,430 6% 0.7%
Unemployment rate
8.7%
20.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Hattiesburg stands at 8.7%, 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 Hattiesburg

How people get around in Hattiesburg

In Hattiesburg, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
17 min
2.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 20,173 86.7% -0.6%
Taxicab 38 0.2% 15.2%
Bus or trolleybus 106 0.5% -38.7%
Motorcycle 51 0.2% 50.0%
Bicycle 205 0.9% -8.5%
Walk 840 3.6% 46.3%
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 Hattiesburg 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

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FAQs about Hattiesburg demographics 

What is the total population of Hattiesburg?

Hattiesburg has a total population of 48,619 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Hattiesburg?

The gender ratio in Hattiesburg is as follows:
  • 44.5% males (21,620 residents)
  • 55.5% females (26,999 residents)

What is the median age in Hattiesburg?

The median age in Hattiesburg is 29.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Hattiesburg?

The age distribution in Hattiesburg is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.5% (7,516 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 25.6% (12,436 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28% (13,609 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.8% (8,659 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.2% (6,399 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Hattiesburg?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Hattiesburg is as follows:
  • White: 40.3% (19,600 residents)
  • Black or African American: 50.6% (24,596 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (129 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (412 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (165 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.4% (3,108 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (609 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.7% of the population in Hattiesburg.

How many housing units are there in Hattiesburg?

There are 23,300 housing units in Hattiesburg, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Hattiesburg has a total of 20,659 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Hattiesburg?

Hattiesburg has a median household income of $46,342, representing a +5.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Hattiesburg?

The employment rate is 91.3% in Hattiesburg, with a workforce of 23,751 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.1% (19,257 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.9% (4,494 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (1,764 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.2% (15,725 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.3% (4,832 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6% (1,430 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