The Census Bureau uses money income thresholds to determine poverty levels for cities. These thresholds differ by family size and composition. If a family's income falls below these thresholds, it is considered impoverished. In Hattiesburg City, the largest percentage of people living below the poverty line are White, Black, and Hispanic. The median age for the city is 27 years. For every 100 females, there are 85.3 males.
Hattiesburg was incorporated in 1884, with an estimated population of 400. Originally known as Twin Forks, the town changed its name to Gordonville in 1908. The city received its final name from Capt. Hardy's wife Hattie. By 1908, the city was the county seat. Despite its recent growth, Hattiesburg has maintained its traditional southern charm.
Many local writers and novelists have come from Hattiesburg. Elliott Chaze developed his writing skills at the Hattiesburg American. Cliff Sessions studied journalism at the University of Southern Mississippi and became a noted civil rights journalist. Noel Polk and Neil McMille taught creative writing at the University of Southern Mississippi and were published in the Hattiesburg American. A notable figure of the city is Dr. James M. Johnson, a native of Hattiesburg.
The University of Southern Mississippi, formerly William Carey College, was established in Hattiesburg. The city is home to Camp Shelby, the largest training base of the US National Guard east of the Mississippi River. By 1930, it had a population of about 18,600. Today, the city is home to nearly 50,000 people. A quick look at the city's history will help you determine whether this town is a good place to live.