Forest, MS
Population 5,365 · Mississippi
About Forest, MS
Forest is a small community in Mississippi with a population of 5,365 residents. The median household income is $51,082 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Forest is 38.2 years.
Housing in Forest has a median home value of $129,100 and median monthly rent of $695. Of the 2,169 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 947 owner-occupied and 926 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Forest is 6.5% and the poverty rate is 23.2%. 14.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 17.9 minutes.
Cost of Living in Forest, MS
Compared to national averages, Forest has a median household income of $51,082 (32% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $129,100, which is 47% below the national median. Monthly rent at $695 is 40% below the US average of $1,163. Within Mississippi, Forest's income is 2% above the state average of $49,929, and home values are 3% above the state median of $125,705.
Why Live in Forest, MS?
Forest offers affordable housing with a median home value of $129,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $695/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($51,082) that falls below the national average. However, Forest’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Forest has a population of 5,365 with a median age of 38.2 years. Compare Forest with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Mississippi.
Similar Cities Near Forest
Cities in Mississippi with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ripley | 5,415 | $56,641 | $132,500 | Compare |
| Vancleave | 5,196 | $71,000 | $218,900 | Compare |
| Leakesville | 5,564 | $65,745 | $111,300 | Compare |
| Pontotoc | 5,717 | $50,230 | $144,300 | Compare |
| Saltillo | 4,962 | $84,063 | $200,800 | Compare |
| Columbia | 5,804 | $34,328 | $112,100 | Compare |
| Aberdeen | 4,909 | $40,732 | $84,100 | Compare |
| University | 4,899 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Mississippi
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Forest
What is the population of Forest, MS?
The population of Forest, MS is 5,365 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Forest?
The median household income in Forest, MS is $51,082 per year.
What is the median home value in Forest?
The median home value in Forest, MS is $129,100.
What is the average rent in Forest?
The median monthly rent in Forest, MS is $695.
What is the unemployment rate in Forest?
The unemployment rate in Forest, MS is 6.5%.