Lamar County
In the beautiful pinewoods region of Southeast Mississippi is Lamar County, with a population just over 45,000 people, covering roughly 500 square miles. Lamar County encompasses the four incorporated communities of Lumberton, Purvis, Sumrall and Hattiesburg (also in Forrest County), along with other fine unincorporated communities. Lamar County is one of the fastest growing counties in the state, with Hattiesburg leading the way for urbanization. Lamar County is served by two public school districts: Lamar County and Lumberton. Lamar County offers residents healthcare provided by the Wesley Medical Center, a state-of-the-art facility. There is also unlimited shopping, dining, many options in community parks, golf courses and city amenities, while maintaining the charming feel of a quiet country setting. The City of Hattiesburg is one of the most progressive areas in the state featuring a low cost of living and an ideal business climate. Primary employment opportunities include health care, education, military, manufacturing and distribution. The I-5 Technology Corridor, running through the heart of the South, spans the market and supports high tech growth. Hattiesburg offers residents many options in recreation, leisure and social activities. Hattiesburg is also home to many fine schools including the University of Southern Mississippi. Hattiesburg has been recognized locally and nationally as one of the finest communities in the state for retirement.
Forrest County
Forrest County is home to the fine community of Hattisburg, also in Lamar County, and known as the “Hub” of Mississippi. Oak Grove, located west of Hattiesburg, and Petal are other developed communities in Forrest County. Oak Grove is home to about 10,000 residents enjoying mild year round weather, economic growth, affordable housing surrounded by lakes, golf courses and wildlife preserves. Oak Grove has one of the states most awarded school districts, with a level five accreditation, the highest awarded. Oak Grove offers residents ample outdoor recreation such as camping, swimming, tennis, canoeing, hunting and more. Petal, home to just under 10,000 residents along the Leaf River, is known as “The Friendly City.” Petal has been awarded “Mississippi’s Most Livable Community.” The Petal School District is one of the finest in the state, and there are numerous athletic fields, community parks and centers for residents to enjoy. Petal is conveniently located within 5 miles of Hattiesburg, 90 miles from the state capital of Jackson, 70 miles to the Gulf Coast and within two hours of New Orleans, La. and Mobile, Ala.
Covington County
Covington County is conveniently located in Southern Mississippi in a region within close proximity to major roadways that connect it to other fine areas of the state. Southern hospitality and charm can be seen throughout the region in both the homes and the residents of Covington County. Covington County supports three main communities – Collins, Mount Olive and Seminary. The county is packed with fine restaurants, and outdoor recreation like golfing, fishing at Lake Mike Conner or rafting on the Okatoma River. It also has a state-of-the-art healthcare system which includes the Covington County Hospital, fine schools in the Covington County School District and many unique stores including the local favorite Hot Coffee’s “mini mall.”
Marion County
Marion County is one of the southernmost counties in Mississippi, adjacent to Lamar County. Located 30 miles west of Hattiesburg and 100 miles north of the Gulf Coast, Marion County is linked by four major highways, providing easy access to major metropolitan cities. The largest city in Marion County is Columbia, established in 1819. Marion County was officially formed in 1807, six years before Mississippi became the 20th state. This community is filled with contemporary homes and many historic homes, including the John Ford Home, which dates back to 1800 and is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. It is one of the oldest Frontier Style homes still standing. Marion County offers residents a family-friendly environment with exceptional schools, recreational opportunities, affordable housing, fine shopping and dining and economic growth in a small town atmosphere. A few of the local residents’ favorite spots for recreation are the Columbia Water Park, the Columbia City Park and Lake Bill Waller.
Jones County
Jones County, established in 1826, has an estimated population over 65,000. The main communities in Jones County are Ellisville, Sandersville, Soso, and Laurel, the largest city in Jones County. Residents can enjoy a number of activities at one of several outdoor recreational venues including Lake Bogue Homa, which is great for fishing, swimming or skiing. There are numerous parks, museums and theaters offering residents endless arts and culture, including the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. It’s Mississippi’s first museum dating back to 1922, which is considered to be one of the South’s finest galleries. Jones County provides residents with many sport complexes, with indoor and outdoor facilities, golf courses, antique stores and more. Young residents of Jones County are served by the Jones County and Laurel City School Districts. The Howard Technology Park in Jones County is setting the stage for future growth and development in economic and residential areas. It connects major metropolitan cities of the entire south to Jones County.
Perry County
Perry County is one of 82 counties in Mississippi with an estimated population just under 15,000 residents. Three main towns make up this county – Beaumont, New Augusta and Richton. All of these communities offer wide open spaces and blue skies. The local economy in Perry County is largely supported by the timber and wood industries, giving the area the name of the “Pine Belt.” Running through the middle of Perry County is Highway 98 providing the county easy access to all the modern conveniences of the major metropolitan cities in the region, including Hattiesburg, Miss., New Orleans, La., and Mobile, Ala. The real estate market in Perry County offers residents affordable housing in a desirable rural environment that is positioned for future economic growth.