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Reporting What Matters

RHCJC

Reporting What Matters

RHCJC

Reporting What Matters

RHCJC

Forrest County

78,435
Total Population
↑ 0.3% from 2020

$51,328
Median Household Income
↑ 22.0% from 2020

31.8
Median Age
→ Stable (31.9 in 2020)

3.0%
Unemployment Rate
↓ from 3.7% in August 2023

Forrest County is a dynamic hub in the Pine Belt region, anchored by the city of Hattiesburg, a center for education, healthcare, and commerce. Established in 1908 and named after Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest, the county has grown from a timber-rich outpost into a diversified economic engine. It is home to The University of Southern Mississippi and William Carey University, which drive a lively cultural and arts scene. With its strategic location at the intersection of major rail lines and highways, Forrest County balances its historical “Hub City” identity with modern developments in medical research and military support at Camp Shelby.

Jamba Jollof opens downtown, expands Hattiesburg dining scene
Jamba Jollof opens downtown, expands Hattiesburg dining scene
July 6, 2026
Jamba Jollof is now Mississippi’s only brick-and-mortar West African restaurant.  
From sales to storage: What happens to unsold fireworks?
From sales to storage: What happens to unsold fireworks?
July 4, 2026
A local retailer said properly stored consumer fireworks do not have an expiration date. 
Longleaf Trace board approves restroom security upgrades, discusses additional safety measures
Longleaf Trace board approves restroom security upgrades, discusses additional safety measures
July 2, 2026
he board approved about $12,600 for electronic locking systems to be installed at the trail's restroom buildings.
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