The Hattiesburg Teacher's Guide: A Career & Lifestyle Analysis

As a career analyst who’s watched the Hattiesburg job market for over a decade, I can tell you this: moving here as an elementary school teacher is a decision about trade-offs. You’re trading the higher salary potential of a major metro for a significantly lower cost of living and a community that, for better or worse, knows your name. This guide isn't about selling you on Hattiesburg; it's about giving you the unvarnished numbers and local context to decide if it's the right fit for your career and life.

The Salary Picture: Where Hattiesburg Stands

Let’s start with the numbers that matter most. According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the Mississippi Department of Education, the financial reality for an elementary school teacher in the Hattiesburg metro area is defined by one key figure: the median salary.

Median Salary: $61,626/year
Hourly Rate: $29.63/hour

This is the midpoint—meaning half of all teachers earn more, and half earn less. When compared to the National Average of $63,670/year, Hattiesburg sits slightly below, but the real context comes from looking within the state. Compared to Jackson ($62,890) or Gulfport ($62,150), Hattiesburg’s number is competitive, especially when you factor in the cost of living (more on that later).

Here’s how experience typically breaks down in the local market. These are estimates based on district salary schedules and BLS percentile data.

Experience Level	Annual Salary Range	Hourly Equivalent
Entry-Level (0-3 years)	$45,000 - $52,000	$21.63 - $25.00
Mid-Career (4-10 years)	$52,000 - $60,000	$25.00 - $28.85
Senior (10-20 years)	$60,000 - $70,000	$28.85 - $33.65
Expert/Lead (20+ years)	$70,000+	$33.65+

Insider Tip: The upper end of the senior and expert ranges is often achieved by taking on additional roles—like a District Instructional Coach, a Lead Teacher in a specialized program (e.g., gifted education), or working in the higher-paying private school sector (e.g., Presbyterian Christian School or Oak Grove Baptist Academy).

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $61,626 salary sounds different when you factor in Mississippi’s state income tax (a tiered system from 3% to 5%) and federal taxes. A rough estimate for a single filer with no dependents would see a take-home pay of approximately $47,000 - $49,000 annually, or about $3,900 - $4,100 per month.

Now, let’s plug in the local cost of living. The metro area’s Cost of Living Index is 89.3 (US avg = 100), and the Average 1BR Rent is $906/month. This is the key to understanding your financial flexibility.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Estimate):

• Gross Monthly Pay: $5,135
• Estimated Taxes/Deductions: ~$1,200
• Net Take-Home: ~$3,935
• Rent (1BR Average): $906
• Utilities (Power, Water, Internet): ~$200
• Groceries & Household: ~$400
• Car Payment/Insurance: ~$450
• Health Insurance (if not covered): ~$150
• Remaining Discretionary: ~$1,829

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely, and this is one of Hattiesburg’s biggest draws for teachers. With a median home price around $175,000-$200,000, a $61,626 salary provides a strong buying opportunity. A 20% down payment ($35,000-$40,000) is a challenge, but many first-time homebuyer programs in Mississippi (like the Mississippi Home Corporation’s “Smart Solution” loan) make a 3% down payment feasible. A mortgage on a $180,000 home would likely run $1,000-$1,200/month (including taxes and insurance), which is a manageable increase from rent for many.

The Where the Jobs Are: Hattiesburg's Major Employers

Hattiesburg’s teaching jobs are concentrated in a few key districts, with the public sector dominating. The Jobs in Metro: 242 figure reflects the total number of elementary teaching positions across all employers. Hiring is steady, but competitive, especially for core subjects.

1. Hattiesburg Public School District (HPSD): The largest employer. Covers the city of Hattiesburg. Known for its diverse student body and programs like the Hattiesburg Arts and Science School (HASS). Hiring trends show a consistent need for special education, STEM, and early childhood teachers. Salaries are aligned with the state schedule.
2. Forrest County School District (FCSD): Serves the unincorporated areas and smaller towns around Hattiesburg (like Petal, though Petal has its own district). Known for strong community ties. They often have openings in rapidly growing suburban areas, particularly in the Oak Grove attendance zone.
3. Petal School District: Consistently ranked as one of Mississippi’s top districts. Located just south of Hattiesburg, it draws teachers from the metro area. Competition is fierce due to high parent involvement and excellent test scores. Salaries are at the top of the local range.
4. Presbyterian Christian School (PCS): The largest private school in the area. Offers a faith-based curriculum. Salaries are competitive with public schools but may come with different benefits and expectations. Hiring is less frequent but offers an alternative environment.
5. The University of Southern Mississippi (USM): While not a direct K-12 employer, USM is a massive economic engine and a key partner. Many teachers pursue graduate degrees here (e.g., a Master’s in Elementary Education or Reading Specialist) to increase their earning potential. The university also runs outreach programs that sometimes hire educators for part-time roles.
6. Laurel School District: A 30-minute drive north, but a significant employer. The district has seen investment and growth, making it a viable option for those willing to commute. Salaries are similar to Hattiesburg’s.
7. South Mississippi Elementary Charter School: A newer option in the area, offering an alternative to traditional public schools. Charters can have more flexibility in curriculum and hiring but may have different job security.

Insider Tip: The best time to apply is in the spring (March-May) for the following academic year. Many districts post openings on their own websites first, before larger job boards.

Getting Licensed in MS

Mississippi’s teacher licensure is managed by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE). The process is straightforward but has specific steps.

1. Educational Requirement: You must have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a state-approved teacher preparation program. For an elementary license (K-6), your degree should be in elementary education or have a verified program of study.
2. Testing: You must pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (reading, writing, math) and the Praxis Subject Assessments (Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects 5001). The cost for the Praxis Core is approximately $130 total, and each Subject Assessment is about $130. These are mandatory for initial licensure.
3. Application: Apply online through the MDE’s Educator Licensure System. The application fee is $125 for initial out-of-state applicants (in-state is $100).
4. Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal background check is required, costing approximately $55.
5. Timeline: If you have all your documents (transcripts, test scores, application), the process can take 4-8 weeks for approval. You can apply for a provisional license (valid for 3 years) while completing any remaining requirements.

Total Estimated Cost to Get Licensed: $310 - $365 (excluding university tuition for any remaining coursework).

Insider Tip: If you’re moving from another state, apply for reciprocity. Mississippi has reciprocity agreements with most states, but you may still need to take the Praxis Subject Assessments if your state’s tests aren’t deemed equivalent.

Best Neighborhoods for Elementary School Teachers

Your commute and lifestyle will vary drastically based on where you live. Here’s a breakdown of areas popular with educators.

Neighborhood/Area	Vibe & Commute	Estimated 1BR Rent	Key Employer Proximity
Downtown Hattiesburg	Walkable, historic, near USM and the cultural district. 10-15 min to most schools.	$850 - $1,100	HPSD, USM
Oak Grove	Suburban, family-friendly, top-rated schools (FCSD/Petal). 15-25 min to downtown.	$900 - $1,200	FCSD, Petal SD
West Hattiesburg	Affordable, quiet, mix of older and new homes. 15-20 min to downtown.	$750 - $950	HPSD, FCSD
Hattiesburg North (Near I-59)	Convenient for commuters, newer apartments, close to shopping. 10-15 min to northern schools.	$800 - $1,000	FCSD, Laurel SD
The Avenues	Historic, charming, near Hattiesburg Clinic and hospitals. 10 min to downtown.	$850 - $1,100	HPSD, Medical Center

Insider Tip: If you land a job in the Petal School District, living in Oak Grove or the southern part of Hattiesburg (like the Aventine area) will give you a reverse commute, which is a major quality-of-life win.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-Year Job Growth of 1% for elementary teachers in the U.S. reflects a stable, non-explosive field. In Hattiesburg, growth will be driven by retirements, not new positions. Your career advancement here is less about climbing a corporate ladder and more about specialization and expertise.

• Specialty Premiums: Earning a Master’s degree (which most districts require for advancement) can add $2,000-$5,000 to your annual salary. Specializations in Special Education, STEM, or Reading Intervention are in high demand and can lead to lead teacher roles or district-level positions.
• Advancement Paths:
  • Instructional Coach: Move out of the classroom to support other teachers. Salaries can reach $65,000-$75,000.
  • Department Chair/Grade Level Lead: A stipend position, often adding $1,500-$3,000 per year.
  • Administration: Becoming an Assistant Principal or Principal requires a Master’s in Educational Leadership and a significant pay bump ($75,000+ for principals).
• 10-Year Outlook: The market will remain stable. The key to growth will be obtaining advanced certifications and building experience in high-need areas. While the starting salary is modest, the low cost of living allows for a comfortable lifestyle without the financial stress of a larger city, which can be a form of long-term financial stability.

The Verdict: Is Hattiesburg Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $61,626 salary goes much further here.	Low Salary Ceiling: Median pay is below the national average.
Strong Community Feel: Schools are often the heart of their neighborhoods.	Limited Diversity: The region is predominantly conservative, which may not suit everyone.
Stable Job Market: Public school districts provide reliable employment.	Professional Isolation: Fewer large conferences or networking events compared to major metros.
Excellent for Homeownership: Affordable housing market.	Lower Per-Pupil Spending: Can mean fewer classroom resources.
Southern Charm & Outdoor Access: Pine belts, trails, and a slower pace.	Weather: Hot, humid summers and occasional severe storms.

Final Recommendation: Hattiesburg is an excellent choice for teachers who prioritize quality of life, community, and homeownership over maximum salary potential. It’s ideal for those who value a slower pace, don’t mind the heat, and want to be a visible, integral part of a school community. If you’re driven by earning the highest possible salary and crave the anonymity and amenities of a large city, you may find Hattiesburg limiting.

FAQs

Q: Can I live in Hattiesburg on a teacher’s salary alone?
A: Yes, comfortably. With a median salary of $61,626 and an average rent of $906/month, you have significant financial flexibility, especially if you budget wisely. Many teachers here own homes.

Q: How competitive is the job market?
A: It’s competitive but not cutthroat. 242 jobs in the metro means openings exist, especially in high-need subjects. Having a Mississippi license and student teaching experience in the state will give you a major edge.

Q: What’s the biggest challenge for new teachers in Hattiesburg?
A: Many new teachers cite adjusting to the classroom resources available. While community support is strong, budgets can be tight. Success often depends on creativity and building relationships with veteran teachers for shared resources.

Q: Do I need a car?
A: Absolutely. Hattiesburg is a car-dependent city. Public transportation (like the Hub City Transit) exists but is not reliable for a daily teacher commute. Factor car ownership into your budget.

Q: How does the 10-year job growth of 1% affect my prospects?
A: It means the market is stable, not booming. You’re unlikely to see a flood of new positions, but retirements create consistent openings. Your long-term security comes from being a valued, experienced teacher, not from rapid industry expansion.