West Hattiesburg, MS demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,715
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$39,366/yr
2.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,622
-1.5% year-over-year change

West Hattiesburg population

How many people live in West Hattiesburg

West Hattiesburg is home to 6,715 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 42.9% of West Hattiesburg locals are male, and 57.1% are female.

Total population
6,715
3.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
42.9%
2,883
Female
57.1%
3,832
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,883 42.9% 13.9%
Female 3,832 57.1% -3.6%
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 West Hattiesburg is 29, with the population distributed as follows: about 26.4% are children under 15, then 17.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 32.2% of the population, while another 13% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 10.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
28.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
26.4%
15 to 24
17.9%
25 to 44
32.2%
45 to 64
13%
Over 65
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,770 26.4% 12.7%
15 to 24 1,199 17.9% 4.8%
25 to 44 2,162 32.2% 6.2%
45 to 64 875 13% -6.7%
Over 65 709 10.6% -13.5%
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 West Hattiesburg, 89.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 23.6% of locals are Caucasian, 56.9% are African American and 1.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.9%
Non-citizens
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,002 89.4% 4.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 125 1.9% 38.9%
Non-citizens 588 8.8% -10.4%
Racial breakdown
White
23.6%
Black or African American
56.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6%
Other
11.6%
Value Percent
White 1,588 23.6%
Black or African American 3,821 56.9%
Asian 124 1.8%
Two or more races 405 6%
Other 777 11.6%

Households in West Hattiesburg

A peek inside West Hattiesburg households

West Hattiesburg has 2,297 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.2% are families, while the remaining 33.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,297
-4.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
777
Family households
1,520
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 777 33.8% -11.7%
Family households 1,520 66.2% 0.5%
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 West Hattiesburg

The housing landscape of West Hattiesburg

West Hattiesburg's housing consists of 2,622 units, with 39.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7% 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 8.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,622
-1.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,025 39.1%
1 unit, attached 183 7%
2 units 309 11.8%
3 or 4 units 143 5.4%
5 to 9 units 334 12.7%
10 to 19 units 98 3.7%
20 to 49 units 275 10.5%
50 or more units 26 1%
Mobile home 229 8.7%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Hattiesburg

In West Hattiesburg, the median construction year is 1983. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built between 1950 and 1959 79 3% 64.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 263 10% 27.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 806 30.7% 22.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 476 18.2% -15.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 341 13% 16.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 248 9.5% -43.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 409 15.6% -11.7%
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.

West Hattiesburg occupancy rates

Out of the 2,297 occupied housing units in West Hattiesburg, 42.3% are owner-occupied, while 57.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,297
-4.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,326
Owner occupied
971
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,326 57.7% -14.7%
Owner occupied 971 42.3% 16.0%
Unoccupied housing units
12.4%
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.

West Hattiesburg housing costs

Housing costs in West Hattiesburg come to a median of $1,041 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $978.

Median housing costs per month
$1,041/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 West Hattiesburg
$978/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 West Hattiesburg

West Hattiesburg education at a glance

About 40.8% of the population in West Hattiesburg went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 6% earned an associate degree and 15.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 151 3.4% -51.0%
High school diploma 1,812 40.8% -2.9%
College diploma 1,004 22.6% 8.0%
Associate degree 267 6% -33.8%
Bachelor's degree 686 15.4% 25.6%
Graduate degree 526 11.8% 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 West Hattiesburg

How much people earn in West Hattiesburg

The average annual household income in West Hattiesburg was $60,918 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $39,366, reflecting a +2.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Hattiesburg
$60,918/year
6.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Hattiesburg
$39,366/year
2.9% year-over-year change

West Hattiesburg income by age

Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,673 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,153, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,563 in earnings. Overall, 62.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,153 N/A
45 - 64 $75,673 34.9%
Over 65 $40,563 -12.4%
Above poverty level
3,997
Below poverty level
2,422
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,997 62.3% 1.3%
Below poverty level 2,422 37.7% 3.5%

Average renter income in West Hattiesburg

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in West Hattiesburg, their median household income was $27,059 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 43.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$27,059
Rent-to-income ratio
43.4%
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 West Hattiesburg

Workforce and job types in West Hattiesburg

The job market in West Hattiesburg is powered by 2,731 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 3.8% run their own businesses, 74.4% are employed by private companies, and 18.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,731
2.8% year-over-year change
White collar
2,179
Blue collar
552
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,179 79.8% 4.3%
Blue collar 552 20.2% -2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
3.8%
Private companies
74.4%
Governmental workers
18.3%
Not for profit companies
3.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 104 3.8% 420.0%
Private companies 2,032 74.4% -1.3%
Governmental workers 500 18.3% 4.0%
Not for profit companies 95 3.5% -3.1%
Unemployment rate
11.4%
-4.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in West Hattiesburg stands at 11.4%, 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 West Hattiesburg

How people get around in West Hattiesburg

Commuting methods vary: 87.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,135 87.8% 6.1%
Walk 55 2.3% -50.9%
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.

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about West Hattiesburg demographics 

What is the total population of West Hattiesburg?

West Hattiesburg has a total population of 6,715 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 +3.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Hattiesburg?

The gender ratio in West Hattiesburg is as follows:
  • 42.9% males (2,883 residents)
  • 57.1% females (3,832 residents)

What is the median age in West Hattiesburg?

The median age in West Hattiesburg is 28.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in West Hattiesburg?

The age distribution in West Hattiesburg is as follows:
  • Under 15: 26.4% (1,770 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17.9% (1,199 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 32.2% (2,162 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 13% (875 residents)
  • Over 65: 10.6% (709 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of West Hattiesburg?

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Hattiesburg is as follows:
  • White: 23.6% (1,588 residents)
  • Black or African American: 56.9% (3,821 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 1.8% (124 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6% (405 residents)
  • Other: 11.6% (777 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.4% of the population in West Hattiesburg.

How many housing units are there in West Hattiesburg?

There are 2,622 housing units in West Hattiesburg, reflecting a -1.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

West Hattiesburg has a total of 2,297 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Hattiesburg?

West Hattiesburg has a median household income of $39,366, representing a +2.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 88.6% in West Hattiesburg, with a workforce of 2,731 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.8% (2,179 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.2% (552 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 3.8% (104 residents)
  • Private companies: 74.4% (2,032 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.3% (500 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.5% (95 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