Cities and Towns in Forrest County, Mississippi
Founded in 1906, Forrest County is one of 82 counties in the state of Mississippi. Historically, Forrest County was formed from Perry County. The city of Hattiesburg is the county seat. With FIPS code of 35, Forrest County has a population of 77,875 and area of 467 square miles (1,210 km²).
List of all cities in Forrest County, MS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Arnold Line, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Barrontown, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Batson, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Bon Homme, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Brooklyn, MS | 39425 | 601/769 |
| Camp Shelby, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| 39407 | 601/769 | |
| Carterville, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Dixie, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Dixie Pine, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Eatonville, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Glendale, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Harvey, MS | 39465 | 601/769 |
| Hattiesburg, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| 39402 | 601/769 | |
| 39403 | 601/769 | |
| 39404 | 601/769 | |
| 39406 | 601/769 | |
| 39407 | 601/769 | |
| Hattiesburg South, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Indian Springs, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Lamar Park, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Leeville, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Lux, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Macedonia, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Maxie, MS | 39425 | 601/769 |
| Maybank, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| McCallum, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| McLaurin, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Meyers, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Morriston, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Oak Grove, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Palmers Crossing, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Petal, MS | 39465 | 601/769 |
| Rawls Springs, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Runnelstown, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Sunrise, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| Uinversity of Southern MS, MS | 39401 | 601/769 |
| 39406 | 601/769 |
Major Cities and Towns in Forrest County, Mississippi
Hattiesburg
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 54.3 square miles
- Population: Around 46,000 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 39401, 39402, 39403, 39404, 39406, 39407
- Latitude: 31.3271° N
- Longitude: 89.2903° W
Location and History
Hattiesburg, the largest city in Forrest County, is located in southern Mississippi along the Leaf River. Founded in 1882 and named after the wife of founder William H. Hardy, Hattiesburg quickly developed due to the timber and railroad industries, which fueled its growth as a major economic hub. Nicknamed the “Hub City,” Hattiesburg became a key transportation and trade center, connecting major railways and highways across the region. During the Civil Rights Movement, Hattiesburg was a focal point for activism, including the Freedom Summer of 1964. Today, Hattiesburg is known for its cultural diversity, strong educational institutions, and vibrant arts scene. The city is home to the University of Southern Mississippi and William Carey University, which contribute to its dynamic college-town atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hattiesburg is served by the Hattiesburg Public School District, with Hattiesburg High School being a central institution. Key landmarks include the Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood District, with beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, and the African American Military History Museum, which honors the contributions of Black soldiers. The Hattiesburg Zoo and the Longleaf Trace, a 41-mile scenic trail, are popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts. Annual events like FestivalSouth, a multi-week celebration of the arts, showcase Hattiesburg’s commitment to culture and community engagement, making it a lively and welcoming city in Forrest County.
Petal
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 17.1 square miles
- Population: Around 10,000 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 39465
- Latitude: 31.3460° N
- Longitude: 89.2601° W
Location and History
Petal, situated just east of Hattiesburg across the Leaf River, is known as the “Friendly City.” Established in the early 20th century, Petal was originally a rural farming community that grew as families settled along the river. Named after the daughter of a prominent resident, Petal officially became a city in 1974. Its close proximity to Hattiesburg has contributed to its development, as many residents commute between the two cities. Over the years, Petal has built a reputation as a family-friendly, tight-knit community with excellent schools and a peaceful suburban environment. The city has experienced steady growth, with a focus on maintaining its friendly, small-town character while offering access to modern amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Petal is served by the Petal School District, known for its high academic standards, with Petal High School as a prominent institution. The Robert E. Russell Sports Complex is a popular community landmark, featuring facilities for various sports and recreational activities. Petal also celebrates the annual Petal Fall Festival, a family-friendly event with crafts, food, and entertainment that highlights the town’s community spirit. Nearby attractions like the Longleaf Trace and the Hattiesburg Zoo provide additional recreational options for residents, making Petal a desirable place to live within Forrest County.
Brooklyn (Unincorporated Community)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 2 square miles (unincorporated community estimate)
- Population: Around 1,000 (estimate)
- Zip Code: 39425
- Latitude: 31.0557° N
- Longitude: 89.1942° W
Location and History
Brooklyn is an unincorporated community in the southern part of Forrest County, located along U.S. Highway 49. Founded in the 19th century, Brooklyn developed as a small farming and timber town, benefitting from the region’s abundant natural resources. The town served as a railroad stop along the Gulf and Ship Island Railroad, which boosted local trade and allowed for easier transportation of goods, especially timber and agricultural products. Brooklyn retains a rural atmosphere with a strong sense of community, offering a peaceful environment and close proximity to the De Soto National Forest, which provides residents with scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Brooklyn is part of the Forrest County School District, with Forrest County Agricultural High School nearby, providing educational opportunities for local students. The town is known for its connection to De Soto National Forest, which offers hiking, camping, and fishing activities, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The Black Creek Trail, a scenic waterway for canoeing and kayaking, is located nearby, drawing outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Brooklyn’s annual community events and close access to natural landmarks make it a charming rural destination within Forrest County.
Carnes (Unincorporated Community)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 1.5 square miles (unincorporated community estimate)
- Population: Around 500 (estimate)
- Zip Code: 39476 (shared with neighboring areas)
- Latitude: 31.1499° N
- Longitude: 89.3630° W
Location and History
Carnes is a small, unincorporated community located in the western part of Forrest County. Originally settled in the late 19th century, Carnes has long been a farming and forestry community, with a strong connection to the surrounding pine forests. This rural community has maintained a quiet, laid-back lifestyle, with many families who have lived there for generations. Due to its location near Hattiesburg and the De Soto National Forest, Carnes provides a peaceful, countryside retreat with easy access to urban amenities and outdoor activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Carnes falls within the Forrest County School District, and local students typically attend schools in nearby towns. Landmarks include several historic churches that serve as the heart of the community and offer a glimpse into its deep-rooted traditions. Proximity to the De Soto National Forest provides Carnes residents with ample recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. The nearby Black Creek Wilderness offers additional outdoor activities, drawing nature lovers and adventurers to the area. With its rural charm and connection to nature, Carnes embodies the essence of a quiet Mississippi community.
