Cities and Towns in Hancock County, Mississippi
Founded in 1812, Hancock County is one of 82 counties in the state of Mississippi. Historically, Hancock County was formed from Un-Organized. The city of Bay St. Louis is the county seat. With FIPS code of 45, Hancock County has a population of 46,055 and area of 477 square miles (1,235 km²).
List of all cities in Hancock County, MS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ansley, MS | 39558 | 228 |
| Bay Saint Louis, MS | 39520 | 228 |
| 39521 | 228 | |
| 39522 | 228 | |
| 39525 | 228 | |
| 39529 | 228 | |
| Bayside Park, MS | 39520 | 228 |
| Belle Isle, MS | 39572 | 228 |
| Clermont Harbor, MS | 39558 | 228 |
| Diamondhead, MS | 39525 | 228 |
| Kiln, MS | 39556 | 228 |
| Lakeshore, MS | 39558 | 228 |
| Mississippi Test Facility, MS | 39520 | 228 |
| 39529 | 228 | |
| National Space Technology La, MS | 39529 | 228 |
| Naval Ocean O Graphic, MS | 39522 | 228 |
| Navocean O, MS | 39522 | 228 |
| North S T L, MS | 39529 | 228 |
| Pearlington, MS | 39572 | 228 |
| Saint Louis, MS | 39520 | 228 |
| Stennis Center, MS | 39522 | 228 |
| Stennis Space Center, MS | 39522 | 228 |
| 39529 | 228 | |
| Waveland, MS | 39576 | 228 |
Major Cities and Towns in Hancock County, Mississippi
Bay St. Louis
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 16.9 square miles
- Population: Around 13,000 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 39520, 39521
- Latitude: 30.3088° N
- Longitude: 89.3306° W
Location and History
Bay St. Louis, the county seat of Hancock County, is located on the Gulf Coast in southern Mississippi along the Bay of St. Louis. Established in 1818, Bay St. Louis is one of the oldest towns on the Gulf Coast, known for its historic charm and coastal scenery. The town originally grew as a fishing village and a resort destination, attracting visitors with its scenic bay views and mild climate. Over the years, Bay St. Louis has weathered numerous hurricanes, including Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which caused extensive damage. Despite these challenges, the town rebuilt and emerged as a resilient and thriving community. Known for its arts and culture, Bay St. Louis has a vibrant downtown area with galleries, boutiques, and historic architecture, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bay St. Louis is served by the Bay St. Louis-Waveland School District, with Bay High School as a central institution known for its academic and athletic programs. Notable landmarks include the historic Bay St. Louis Train Depot, now a visitor center and museum, and Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church, a historic landmark. The town’s beach and bayfront area offer recreational opportunities, and the annual Crab Fest celebrates local seafood and culture with food, crafts, and music. With its strong community spirit, coastal beauty, and cultural attractions, Bay St. Louis remains a cherished Gulf Coast town in Hancock County.
Waveland
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 8.3 square miles
- Population: Around 6,000 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 39576
- Latitude: 30.2866° N
- Longitude: 89.3769° W
Location and History
Waveland, located along the Gulf of Mexico in southern Hancock County, is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Founded in the 19th century, Waveland was initially a popular resort destination for wealthy New Orleanians seeking a beach retreat. Like neighboring Bay St. Louis, Waveland suffered significant damage from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, with much of the town needing to be rebuilt. Despite these hardships, the community came together to restore Waveland, preserving its appeal as a peaceful, family-friendly beach town. Waveland remains unique in that it has no commercial buildings on its beachfront, allowing for uninterrupted scenic views of the Gulf.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Waveland is part of the Bay St. Louis-Waveland School District, with students attending nearby Bay High School. The town’s landmarks include the Garfield Ladner Pier, a popular spot for fishing and sunset viewing, and the Veteran’s Memorial on Beach Boulevard, honoring local service members. Buccaneer State Park, located just outside Waveland, offers camping, water slides, and other outdoor activities, attracting families and tourists. Waveland also hosts local events like the Halloween Bash and Christmas Parade, fostering a strong sense of community. Known for its coastal charm and family-friendly environment, Waveland is a beloved town on the Gulf Coast.
Diamondhead
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 11.7 square miles
- Population: Around 9,000 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 39525
- Latitude: 30.3828° N
- Longitude: 89.3734° W
Location and History
Diamondhead is a planned community located north of Bay St. Louis, near Interstate 10. Developed in the 1970s, Diamondhead was named after Diamond Head, Hawaii, and designed as a resort and residential community with Hawaiian-themed street names and architecture. The town was initially developed with retirees and vacationers in mind, offering amenities like golf courses, marinas, and recreational facilities. Over the years, Diamondhead has grown into a full-time residential community with a range of housing, schools, and businesses, providing a suburban lifestyle in a resort-like setting. Its unique layout and amenities make Diamondhead one of the most distinctive towns in Hancock County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Diamondhead is served by the Hancock County School District, with Hancock High School nearby for secondary education. Notable landmarks include the Diamondhead Country Club, featuring two 18-hole golf courses, and the Diamondhead Marina, which offers access to boating and fishing on the bay. The community’s town center has restaurants, shops, and a community center that hosts events and gatherings. Diamondhead’s annual Arts and Crafts Fair is a popular event that showcases local artisans and fosters community spirit. With its resort-style amenities and friendly atmosphere, Diamondhead is a unique town that attracts residents and visitors alike.
Kiln (Unincorporated Community)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 5 square miles (unincorporated community estimate)
- Population: Around 2,500 (estimate)
- Zip Code: 39556
- Latitude: 30.4088° N
- Longitude: 89.4345° W
Location and History
Kiln, an unincorporated community in northern Hancock County, has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The town was named for the kilns used to produce charcoal and turpentine from the region’s abundant pine forests. Kiln grew as a lumber town, with timber and lumber milling forming the backbone of the local economy. Kiln is perhaps most famous as the hometown of NFL legend Brett Favre, which has made it a point of interest for sports fans. The community maintains a small-town atmosphere with deep roots in Mississippi’s timber industry and Southern culture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kiln is part of the Hancock County School District, with students attending Hancock High School in nearby Kiln. Key landmarks include the Lazy Magnolia Brewery, Mississippi’s oldest brewery, which offers tours and tastings, and the Brett Favre Steakhouse, paying tribute to Kiln’s most famous resident. The community also enjoys outdoor activities at nearby McLeod Park, which provides camping, fishing, and boating on the Jourdan River. Kiln’s annual events, including the Kiln Picnic, celebrate local traditions and community spirit. With its historical background, outdoor attractions, and small-town charm, Kiln is a beloved community in Hancock County.
Pearlington (Unincorporated Community)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 1.9 square miles (unincorporated community estimate)
- Population: Around 1,300 (estimate)
- Zip Code: 39572
- Latitude: 30.2460° N
- Longitude: 89.6017° W
Location and History
Pearlington, located on the Pearl River in southwestern Hancock County near the Louisiana border, is a small, unincorporated community with a rich history in river commerce and agriculture. Founded in the early 19th century, Pearlington was an important port town for timber and cotton shipments. The community’s riverside location also made it a center for boatbuilding. Over time, Pearlington has retained its rural character and remains a quiet, scenic community with close ties to the Pearl River. The town suffered significant flooding from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and efforts have since been made to rebuild and preserve its charm.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pearlington is part of the Hancock County School District, with students attending schools in nearby areas such as Kiln. The community is close to the John C. Stennis Space Center, where visitors can explore exhibits related to NASA and space exploration. The Pearl River offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation, making it a central feature of life in Pearlington. Annual community events and gatherings reflect Pearlington’s tight-knit spirit and appreciation for its natural surroundings. Known for its peaceful riverfront lifestyle, Pearlington remains a unique and picturesque community in Hancock County.