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Mississippi Hattiesburg

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Moving to Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Hattiesburg, Mississippi is gaining recognition as a rising destination for young professionals drawn to its blend of affordability, cultural depth, and Southern hospitality. With a growing economy rooted in healthcare, education, and the creative arts, Hattiesburg offers diverse job opportunities and access to top institutions like the University of Southern Mississippi and William Carey University.

The city is committed to sustainable growth, with initiatives aimed at downtown revitalization, green infrastructure, and the preservation of its scenic natural spaces. Hattiesburg’s historic districts, vibrant arts community, and multicultural festivals showcase the city’s dynamic character and inclusive spirit.

From the Longleaf Trace trail system and sprawling public parks to a thriving food and music scene, Hattiesburg offers a balanced lifestyle where career growth, outdoor adventure, and community connection go hand in hand—making it one of Mississippi’s most inviting and forward-thinking cities.

Hattiesburg by the numbers

48,730

City population

22.6% below

Cost of living vs. national average

$216,610

Median home price

hattiesburg-MS-2

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Discover Hattiesburg: Top Attractions and Things to Do

Local Experiences

Local Experiences

Hattiesburg blends Southern charm with creative energy, offering a range of local experiences that reflect its deep roots, cultural pride, and growing appeal among young professionals and families. Whether you're strolling through historic neighborhoods, discovering local art, or enjoying the flavors of the Gulf South, Hattiesburg invites you to slow down and explore.

Outdoor Escapes
Hattiesburg is a hub for nature lovers and outdoor recreation. The Longleaf Trace, a 44-mile scenic trail stretching from the city into the piney woods, is perfect for biking, walking, and birdwatching. Paul B. Johnson State Park, just minutes away, offers fishing, swimming, and picnicking around Geiger Lake, while the Hattiesburg Zoo brings family-friendly fun right to the city’s heart.

Culinary Discoveries
The local food scene reflects Hattiesburg’s warm hospitality and cultural mix. From down-home barbecue joints and classic Southern diners to craft breweries and global fusion spots, the city is packed with flavor. Farmers markets, coffee shops, and food truck festivals add to the local charm and make every meal an experience.

Arts, History & Culture
Hattiesburg celebrates its creative spirit through public murals, independent galleries, and community events. The Hattiesburg Pocket Museum and the African American Military History Museum provide immersive looks into the city's diverse history, while local theaters and music venues host everything from bluegrass to contemporary performances.

Whether you're looking to hike under the pines, grab a bite at a beloved local haunt, or dive into Mississippi’s rich heritage, Hattiesburg offers an authentic, engaging experience at every turn.

Popular Spots:

  • Longleaf Trace
  • Hattiesburg Zoo
  • African American Military History Museum
  • The Lucky Rabbit
  • Downtown Art Walks

Sports and Recreation

Sports and Recreation

Hattiesburg offers a welcoming mix of small-town charm and active living, with plenty of opportunities for sports, outdoor recreation, and community engagement. From well-maintained parks and scenic trails to youth leagues and college athletics, Hattiesburg makes it easy to stay moving and connected.

Outdoor Recreation and Parks
Hattiesburg’s park system features a variety of green spaces, playgrounds, walking trails, and sports fields ideal for families and fitness seekers alike. The crown jewel is Paul B. Johnson State Park, located just south of town, where visitors enjoy boating, swimming, hiking, and camping on the shores of Geiger Lake.

Within city limits, Kamper Park combines shaded walking paths with tennis courts, playgrounds, and access to the Hattiesburg Zoo, while Chain Park along the Leaf River offers open lawns, event space, and walking trails with river views. The Longleaf Trace, a 44-mile multi-use trail converted from a former railway line, draws walkers, runners, and cyclists year-round and connects Hattiesburg to several neighboring communities.

Sports Facilities and Community Programs
The City of Hattiesburg and area schools offer a robust selection of youth and adult sports programs, including baseball, softball, basketball, tennis, soccer, and pickleball. Local favorites like Tatum Park hosts regular league play, tournaments, and practices throughout the year.

College Athletics and Local Pride
Hattiesburg is home to The University of Southern Mississippi (USM), a hub for NCAA Division I athletics and spirited Golden Eagles fans. Whether you’re catching a football game at M.M. Roberts Stadium, watching basketball or volleyball at Reed Green Coliseum, or supporting Southern Miss baseball at Pete Taylor Park, collegiate sports are a big part of the local experience.

Get Outdoors, Get Involved
With its mild climate and commitment to community wellness, Hattiesburg encourages residents to stay active and engaged. Whether you're exploring local trails, joining a sports league, or cheering on USM athletics, there's always something happening to help you live your healthiest life.

Highlights:

  • Paul B. Johnson State Park
  • Longleaf Trace Trail
  • Kamper Park & Hattiesburg Zoo
  • USM Golden Eagles Athletics
  • Community sports leagues & rec programs

Adventures

Adventures

Hattiesburg is a city where Southern charm meets year-round adventure, blending rich history, lush landscapes, and a thriving local culture. Whether you’re seeking a weekend in the woods, a stroll through art-lined streets, or a taste of the region’s deep-rooted heritage, Hattiesburg invites you to explore at your own pace.

Outdoor Adventures
Surrounded by pine forests and rivers, Hattiesburg is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Longleaf Trace, a 44-mile rail-trail stretching from Hattiesburg to Prentiss, is a favorite for walkers, runners, cyclists, and horseback riders. This scenic trail cuts through shaded woodlands, farmland, and charming small towns, offering plenty of peaceful spots to rest or picnic.

For a taste of lake life, Paul B. Johnson State Park offers kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing on Geiger Lake, along with nature trails, campsites, and cabins. Chain Park at Twin Forks provides a serene setting for kayaking, fishing, or enjoying a relaxing day under the trees with river views.

Cultural and Historical Exploration
Downtown Hattiesburg is a hub of creativity and culture, where murals and public art brighten historic buildings and alleyways. The Hattiesburg Pocket Museum, tucked away in a hidden alley, surprises visitors with its quirky exhibits and ever-changing displays. Nearby, the African American Military History Museum and the Mississippi Armed Forces Museum at Camp Shelby offer immersive experiences that honor local and national history.

Local Flavor and Community Spirit
Food plays a starring role in Hattiesburg’s adventure scene. From down-home barbecue and soul food to chef-driven bistros and craft breweries, the city’s culinary landscape is a journey all its own. Downtown’s monthly Live @ Five outdoor concert series, seasonal farmers markets, and food truck festivals fill the calendar with music, flavor, and fun.

Hidden Gems & Memorable Moments
Whether you're catching live music at a local venue, canoeing down the Leaf River, or exploring an antique shop on a lazy Saturday, Hattiesburg invites you to make memories in a place where adventure feels easy and authentic. With its blend of nature, history, and small-town energy, Hattiesburg is the kind of place where every day can lead to a new discovery.

Highlights:

  • Longleaf Trace
  • Paul B. Johnson State Park
  • Hattiesburg Pocket Museum

  • African American Military History Museum

  • Chain Park on the Leaf River

Seasonal Events

Seasonal Events

Hattiesburg embraces the rhythm of the seasons with a variety of community events that celebrate Southern hospitality, local talent, and the area’s rich cultural heritage. From spring festivals to holiday traditions, the Hub City offers something special all year long.

Spring: Music, Art & Fresh Beginnings
As azaleas bloom and warm breezes return, spring in Hattiesburg kicks off with lively outdoor events. The Downtown Crawfish Jam Music Festival combines live bands, all-you-can-eat crawfish, and family fun in the heart of downtown. Art lovers flock to the HubFest, a beloved street festival featuring local artists, food vendors, and music spanning multiple genres. The season also welcomes farmers markets and neighborhood clean-up days, bringing the community together to celebrate renewal.

Summer: Sunshine & Southern Flavor
Summer sizzles with live music, local eats, and outdoor entertainment. The Live @ Five concert series fills Town Square Park with good vibes on Friday evenings, while food trucks and artisan vendors round out the experience. Independence Day brings fireworks at the Hattiesburg Zoo and family-friendly celebrations across the city. Kids and adults alike take advantage of splash pads, pool parties, and nature activities at local parks and recreation centers.

Fall: Festivals & Football Spirit
When the weather cools, Hattiesburg shines with fall festivities and Golden Eagle pride. The Southern Miss Homecoming celebration is a highlight, featuring parades, pep rallies, and football excitement at The Rock. Seasonal events like Halloween at the Zoo mix creativity with spooky fun. Pumpkin patches, hayrides, and craft fairs also pop up across the Pine Belt.

Winter: Lights, Cheer & Community Warmth
The holidays bring magic to the Hub City with twinkling lights and festive traditions. Christmas in the ‘Burg transforms downtown into a holiday wonderland with a Christmas parade, carriage rides, and tree lighting. The Zoo Lights Safari at the Hattiesburg Zoo dazzles visitors with colorful light displays, while churches and community centers host concerts, markets, and winter-themed family events.

Year-Round Charm
Whether you’re tapping your toes at a local concert, sipping cider at a fall fair, or marveling at holiday lights, Hattiesburg’s seasonal events reflect its creative spirit and strong sense of community. There's always a reason to gather, celebrate, and connect—no matter the season.

Highlights:

  • Downtown Crawfish Jam
  • HubFest
  • Live @ Five
  • Southern Miss Homecoming
  • Christmas in the ‘Burg
  • Zoo Lights Safari

Community Resources

Healthcare
Hospitals and Medical Centers

Hattiesburg offers a strong and growing healthcare network that provides high-quality, compassionate medical care to residents across the Pine Belt region. With a combination of major hospitals, specialty centers, and mental health resources, the city ensures accessible treatment options for individuals and families alike.

Forrest General Hospital
As Hattiesburg’s flagship medical facility, Forrest General Hospital is a regional leader in comprehensive healthcare. This 500+ bed, Level II Trauma Center serves 19 counties and is recognized for excellence in cardiology, cancer care, orthopedics, women's health, and emergency services. It is also home to the Forrest Health Cancer Center and Heart and Vascular Center, offering advanced diagnostics and treatment in a community-centered environment. Forrest General partners with local universities to support education and innovation in healthcare.

Hattiesburg Clinic
Founded in 1963, Hattiesburg Clinic is one of the largest multi-specialty physician-owned clinics in the Southeast. With over 300 providers across more than 50 specialties, it serves as a central hub for outpatient care in the region. Patients have access to everything from primary care and pediatrics to dermatology, endocrinology, and neurology—all coordinated under one network for efficient, patient-focused treatment.

Merit Health Wesley
Merit Health Wesley is a full-service, acute care hospital offering 24/7 emergency services, surgical care, women’s health, orthopedics, and rehabilitation. The hospital is known for its family birthing center and advanced imaging technology. With a strong focus on community health and patient satisfaction, Merit Health Wesley complements Hattiesburg’s wider medical infrastructure with accessible care and personalized services.

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services

A nationally recognized leader in behavioral health, Pine Grove provides inpatient and outpatient mental health and addiction recovery programs. Specialties include trauma therapy, eating disorders, substance use treatment, and adolescent services. Its holistic, evidence-based approach draws individuals from across the U.S. and beyond.

Specialty & Urgent Care Clinics

Hattiesburg is home to numerous urgent care facilities and specialty clinics that serve day-to-day medical needs with walk-in convenience. Physical therapy, dental care, ophthalmology, chiropractic services, and women’s health providers are readily available throughout the city.

A Trusted Healthcare Hub

Whether you need emergency treatment, long-term care, mental health support, or routine checkups, Hattiesburg’s healthcare providers deliver compassionate, high-quality care with a regional reach. As a medical hub for southern Mississippi, the city continues to invest in innovation, wellness, and the health of its growing community.

Education
Schools and Learning Institutes

Hattiesburg is a regional leader in education, offering a diverse and supportive environment for learners of all ages—from early childhood programs to nationally recognized universities. With strong public and private schools, vocational training options, and a vibrant higher education presence, Hattiesburg is a city that values academic achievement and lifelong learning.

Public and Charter Schools

Hattiesburg is primarily served by two main school districts:

Hattiesburg Public School District (HPSD)
Serving the city’s core, HPSD is known for its commitment to equity, academic excellence, and innovative programming. The district includes elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as preschool services. Hattiesburg High School offers robust AP coursework, competitive arts and athletics, and a celebrated International Baccalaureate (IB) program—one of the few in the state.

Lamar County School District (LCSD)
Many families in the Hattiesburg suburbs are zoned for LCSD, a top-performing district with highly rated schools and strong community support. Oak Grove High School, part of LCSD, is consistently ranked among the best in Mississippi for academics and extracurriculars.

Charter and magnet programs also expand local options, with themes ranging from STEM and the arts to career technical education.

Private and Faith-Based Schools

Hattiesburg offers a range of private school options for families seeking a faith-based or alternative learning environment. Schools like Sacred Heart Catholic School and Presbyterian Christian School are known for their academic rigor, smaller class sizes, and community-centered values. These schools serve grades K–12 and emphasize both academic and character development.

Higher Education & Technical Training

Hattiesburg is a higher education hub for southern Mississippi, home to institutions that attract students from across the region and beyond:

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM)
A flagship research university located in the heart of the city, USM offers more than 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as business, education, science, arts, and nursing. Its robust honors college, research centers, and Division I athletics program contribute to a vibrant campus life and academic environment.

William Carey University
A private Christian university with a strong focus on health sciences, education, and the arts. William Carey is especially renowned for its College of Osteopathic Medicine and School of Education, making it a leader in producing future doctors and teachers in Mississippi.

Pearl River Community College – Hattiesburg Campus
Serving students with associate degrees, trade certifications, and adult education, PRCC provides flexible learning options and workforce development in fields like HVAC, welding, nursing, and business technology.

Antonelli College (closed 2019) and other former institutions are being replaced by expanding vocational and workforce training programs across the region.

Lifelong Learning

Hattiesburg’s public library system, community education programs, and adult learning resources ensure continued growth at every life stage. Whether you're preparing for college, switching careers, or enriching your personal skills, the city offers accessible pathways to success.

With a focus on opportunity, innovation, and community engagement, Hattiesburg continues to invest in the education of its residents—empowering learners today and building a stronger future for tomorrow.

Public Resources
Regional Services and Agencies

Hattiesburg offers a dependable and well-coordinated range of public services and government resources designed to keep the city safe, connected, and thriving. Whether you're a newcomer or a long-time resident, Hattiesburg’s infrastructure and community-focused initiatives support a high quality of life for all.

Government & Safety

Hattiesburg is governed by the City of Hattiesburg and works in coordination with Forrest County and Lamar County to deliver vital public services. These entities oversee public safety, infrastructure, community development, and emergency preparedness for the region.

The Hattiesburg Police Department is committed to community-oriented policing, crime prevention, and public engagement. The department emphasizes transparency, trust-building, and collaboration with neighborhoods to enhance safety.

The Hattiesburg Fire Department provides fire protection, emergency medical response, and disaster readiness services across the city. The department is known for its fast response times and also offers community education programs and fire safety outreach.

City and county departments manage essential services such as solid waste collection, street maintenance, stormwater management, parks and recreation, code enforcement, and emergency management—helping maintain a safe, functional, and livable environment for all residents.

Transportation

Hattiesburg offers a growing network of local transportation options and regional connectivity:

U.S. Highways 49 and 98, as well as Interstate 59, run through Hattiesburg, making it a key transportation hub in south Mississippi and providing efficient access to cities like Jackson, Gulfport, and New Orleans.

The Hub City Transit system provides fixed-route and ADA paratransit services throughout Hattiesburg. The service is affordable and convenient for residents who rely on public transit for work, school, or errands.

Hattiesburg-Laurel Regional Airport (PIB) offers regional air service with connections to major hubs, while Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport and Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport offer expanded domestic flight options within driving distance.

Vehicle Registration and Licensing

Motor vehicle and driver services in Hattiesburg are managed by the Mississippi Department of Revenue (DOR) and the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS). Residents can access services at the local offices within Forrest and Lamar Counties. Services include:

  • Issuance and renewal of Mississippi driver’s licenses and ID cards (including REAL ID)

  • Vehicle registration, tag renewal, and title transfers

  • Testing for new drivers and permit holders

  • Disability parking placards and specialty plates

Many services can be completed online through the Mississippi DOR and DPS websites, including scheduling appointments, paying fees, updating addresses, and renewing licenses or registrations—offering residents convenient access to important motor vehicle services.

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This city guide is provided as a service by Atlas Van Lines.