Hattiesburg–Laurel Combined Statistical Area: A Regional Overview

Hattiesburg–Laurel Combined Statistical Area

Located in the southern region of Mississippi, the Hattiesburg–Laurel Combined Statistical Area (CSA) serves as a significant demographic and economic hub. A Combined Statistical Area is a geographic region that consists of adjacent metropolitan and micropolitan areas that have a high degree of social and economic integration.

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Regional Composition and Geography

The Hattiesburg–Laurel CSA is composed of two distinct statistical entities: the Hattiesburg Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) and the Laurel Micropolitan Statistical Area (µSA). Together, these areas span six counties in the state of Mississippi:

  • Covington
  • Forrest
  • Jasper
  • Jones
  • Lamar
  • Perry

Principal Urban Centers

The region is anchored by two primary cities. Hattiesburg serves as the principal city of the CSA, while Laurel acts as the secondary urban center, providing a balanced distribution of commerce and residential growth across the southern Mississippi landscape.

Population and Demographics

The region has shown steady growth over the last decade. According to the 2010 census, the population of the Hattiesburg–Laurel CSA was 247,233. By 2019, estimates indicated that the population had increased to 253,330, reflecting a continuing trend of regional expansion.

Hattiesburg–Laurel CSA Quick Reference
Category Details
State Mississippi, United States
Principal City Hattiesburg
Other Major City Laurel
Counties Included Covington, Forrest, Jasper, Jones, Lamar, Perry
2010 Population 247,233
2019 Estimated Population 253,330
Time Zone UTC-6 (CST) / UTC-5 (CDT)

Key Facts

  • The CSA integrates both a Metropolitan Statistical Area (Hattiesburg) and a Micropolitan Statistical Area (Laurel).
  • It encompasses a total of six Mississippi counties.
  • The estimated population grew to 253,330 as of 2019.
  • The region operates on Central Standard Time (CST) and Central Daylight Time (CDT).

Frequently Asked Questions

Which counties are part of the Hattiesburg–Laurel CSA?

The CSA covers six counties: Covington, Forrest, Jasper, Jones, Lamar, and Perry.

What is the difference between the MSA and µSA in this region?

The Hattiesburg area is classified as a Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), typically denoting a larger urban core, while the Laurel area is a Micropolitan Statistical Area (µSA), which denotes a smaller urban cluster.

What is the current population trend of the area?

The population has been increasing, rising from 247,233 in the 2010 census to an estimated 253,330 by 2019.

What time zone does the Hattiesburg–Laurel area follow?

The region follows Central Standard Time (UTC-6) and observes Central Daylight Time (UTC-5) during the summer months.