Beth Scharwath | Your Hattiesburg Real Estate Expert

Yes, and here’s why. Hattiesburg offers a rare mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Home to two universities and a nationally respected medical community, it’s a city that punches above its weight in education and healthcare. You’ll find a thriving arts scene, live music, and a food culture that ranges from hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints to chef-driven restaurants. As the Hub City, Hattiesburg sits at the crossroads of major highways, making it easy to reach the Gulf Coast, New Orleans, Jackson, or Mobile—perfect for weekend getaways. Whether you’re moving for work, school, or a slower pace of life, Hattiesburg delivers affordability, community, and culture in one smart package.

Yes, Hattiesburg is an increasingly popular retirement destination—especially for those looking for affordability without sacrificing access to quality healthcare and cultural life. With two major hospitals and a strong medical community, it’s an excellent choice for retirees who want top-notch care close by. The cost of living is lower than the national average, and there’s no state income tax on retirement income like Social Security or 401(k) withdrawals. You’ll also find beautiful neighborhoods, great restaurants, and plenty of opportunities to stay active—from golf courses to the Longleaf Trace bike trail. Whether you want peace and quiet or an easy social scene, Hattiesburg delivers both in a manageable, friendly package.

Hattiesburg is a mid-sized Southern city with a laid-back vibe and a lot of personality. It’s a college town, a medical hub, a military community, and a regional arts center all rolled into one. Locals enjoy a blend of historic neighborhoods, new construction communities, and green spaces like the Longleaf Trace. With The University of Southern Mississippi and William Carey University in town, there’s always something going on—sports, concerts, festivals, you name it. Hattiesburg also has a reputation for being friendly, affordable, and full of character. It’s the kind of place where you still get a wave from the neighbor and a great meal without a long wait. It’s not just a stop on the way to the beach—it’s a place people stay on purpose.

Oak Grove isn’t an official town—it’s a community centered around the Oak Grove School District in Lamar County. That means homes in Oak Grove may have mailing addresses in Hattiesburg, Purvis, or even Sumrall, depending on where they fall on the map. The most accurate way to find homes in Oak Grove is by searching using the school zone, not the city name. If you’re looking for homes in Oak Grove, I can help you narrow your search based on zoning, subdivision, and school attendance lines—so you’re not stuck combing through listings in the wrong area.

The Hattiesburg Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) is a region in South Mississippi made up of Forrest, Lamar, and Perry counties, with Hattiesburg serving as the primary city. The metro includes a mix of incorporated towns, census-designated communities, and rural unincorporated areas, all connected by shared economic, educational, and healthcare systems.
Cities and towns in the Hattiesburg metro include Hattiesburg, Petal, Purvis, Sumrall, Richton, Beaumont, Lumberton, and New Augusta. Census-designated places include Arnold Line, Rawls Springs, and West Hattiesburg. The metro also covers several unincorporated communities such as Oak Grove, Baxterville, Brooklyn, Carnes, Fruitland Park, Hintonville, McLaurin, Oloh, and Runnelstown.
Together, these areas make up a diverse and growing region with a population of around 170,000 people, anchored by Hattiesburg’s hospitals, universities, job centers, and vibrant cultural scene.