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Reporting What Matters

RHCJC

Reporting What Matters

RHCJC

Reporting What Matters

RHCJC

Hancock County

46,492
Total Population
↑ +1.0% from 2020

$67,728
Median Household Income
↑ +18.7% from 2020

45.7
Median Age
→ Stable (45 in 2020)

3.6%
Unemployment Rate
↓ Well below state average

Hancock County serves as Mississippi’s coastal gateway to the west, blending historic charm with cutting-edge aerospace technology. Established in 1812 and named for Founding Father John Hancock, the county is home to the John C. Stennis Space Center, a premier NASA rocket testing facility that drives the local economy. The county seat, Bay St. Louis, is celebrated for its artistic community, beachfront dining, and resilience in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. From the quiet marshes of the Pearl River to the bustling scientific corridors, Hancock County offers a unique mix of preservation and innovation.

Coast beach advisories trend down despite summer spikes
Coast beach advisories trend down despite summer spikes
June 16, 2026
State officials recommend avoiding water contact during and for at least 24 hours after significant rainfall.
Air quality data shows rise in moderate pollution days in southeast Mississippi
Air quality data shows rise in moderate pollution days in southeast Mississippi
June 11, 2026
Data from Mississippi's air quality monitoring stations shows an upward trend over the past decade in moderate or worse pollution days in southeast Mississippi, increasing...
Mississippi rare disease task force comes as families travel out of state for care
Mississippi rare disease task force comes as families travel out of state for care
May 4, 2026
For families dealing with rare diseases, those decisions can mean leaving Mississippi for appointments.
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