The story of this market
The typical home in ZIP 39401 sells for about $186,000, or $115 per square foot.
Prices are up +2.4% from a year ago, so sellers still have some momentum. Homes take about 48 days to sell. HUD's fair market rent for a two-bedroom is $948 a month.
ZIP 39401 — Hattiesburg
The 39401 housing market is characterized by steady demand driven by the university and healthcare sectors, with a median price of $186,000. Inventory remains tight, keeping days on market relatively low at 48 days. The market is currently stable, with modest year-over-year price appreciation.
This ZIP is well-suited for university students, faculty, and first-time homebuyers looking for affordable entry-level housing. It also attracts investors seeking steady rental income from the student housing market.
Median prices moved up 2.4% year over year.
Homes spend a median of 48 days on market with 3.2 months of supply — a fast-moving market.
12% of listings have cut prices · homes sell at 97.5% of asking — demand is running ahead of supply.
no recorded foreclosure-ledger notices (0.0 per 10,000 residents) · unemployment 9.1% · poverty 31.1% — elevated distress and economic pressure.
Researched annual trajectory for this ZIP, from published historical series
Solid: researched ten-year history · dotted: 1 / 3 / 5-year projection extended from the historical 4.5%/yr trend — a deterministic estimate, not a published forecast or guarantee.
Median annual property tax paid on this ZIP's residential parcels
Solid: researched ten-year history · dotted: 1 / 3 / 5-year projection extended from the historical 4.4%/yr trend — a deterministic estimate, not a published forecast or guarantee.
versus the prior ACS vintage
ZCTA 39401, Mississippi
Crime rates in Hattiesburg are generally higher than the national average, with property crime being the most frequently reported issue. Local law enforcement maintains a consistent presence, particularly near the university and downtown corridors.
The area is served primarily by the Hattiesburg Public School District, which faces ongoing challenges with academic performance metrics compared to state averages. Several magnet and specialized programs are available to enhance educational outcomes.
The region is susceptible to severe thunderstorms and occasional tropical weather impacts, necessitating standard wind and hail insurance coverage. Flood risk is localized to specific low-lying areas near the Leaf River and its tributaries.
Economic momentum is anchored by the University of Southern Mississippi and the regional healthcare sector, including Forrest General Hospital. Development is focused on revitalizing the downtown district and expanding student-oriented housing.
Composed from the ARED governance burden registry — tier-native tax structure (state + county + city + special districts), never averaged. State (Mississippi) — Ad Valorem Property Tax: Formula: (True Value × Assessment Ratio) × Millage Rate = Taxes. Class I (single-family owner-occupied) is assessed at a 10% ratio. Homestead exemptions for homeowners over 65 or disabled provide an exemption on the first $7,500 of assessed value.
Commutes are primarily car-dependent, with US-49 and I-59 serving as the main arteries for regional travel. Traffic congestion is generally low, though peak hours can see delays near the university campus.
The area features access to the Longleaf Trace, a popular multi-use rail-trail, and several municipal parks including Kamper Park. Shopping and dining are concentrated along the Hardy Street corridor.
The rental market is heavily influenced by the university student population, leading to high demand for multi-family units and single-family rentals near campus. Vacancy rates remain relatively low due to consistent student enrollment.
The economy is driven by education, healthcare, and government services. Major employers include the University of Southern Mississippi and Forrest General Hospital.
Transportation is dominated by private vehicle use, with limited public transit options provided by the city. Infrastructure is centered on highway connectivity via I-59 and US-49.
Development is currently focused on infill projects and the expansion of student-centric housing near the university. City planning emphasizes the preservation of historic districts while encouraging commercial growth.
Parcels are subject to municipal and county taxes, with specific levies for the Hattiesburg Public School District and local utility districts.
Property insurance premiums are moderate but sensitive to wind and hail risk, with most carriers requiring specific coverage for storm-related damage.
Data retrieved from US Census Bureau ZCTA-level tables.
Public schools whose reported address is in this area (NCES). Not attendance boundaries — schools that serve residents may sit outside it. Check the district's address locator for assignment.
A 44-mile paved rail-trail popular for cycling and walking.
A historic municipal park featuring green space and recreational facilities.
Major regional anchor institution and cultural hub.
Key-figure check: no independent anchor retained yet — first-researched cycles establish the anchor baseline this pass.