Mississippi / Scott County

Moving to Forest, MS

Thinking of making a move to Forest, MS? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Forest, MS

Considering a move to Forest, MS? This welcoming community of 5,430 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $101,000 and average rents near $720. Commute times average 23 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (62% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Forest's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Forest, MS

Forest has a population of 5,430 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 35 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 36% White, 48% Black, and 8% Asian residents, and over 15% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
5,430
Density
450 per sq mi
Median Age
35.2
Gender Ratio
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
15.4%

Ethnic Composition

White
35.5%
Black
47.8%
Others
6.6%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Forest, MS?

The cost of living in Forest is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 78.4. Median home values are around $101,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $720. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$101,000
Gross Rent
$720
Monthly Electricity Charges
$135
Auto Insurance
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$295
State Taxes
Low: 3%| High: 5%
Cost Of Living Index
78.4
Grocery
92.7
Housing
62.3
Utilities
96.8
Transportation
80.3
Health Care
88.5
Miscellaneous
90.1

Crime

Is Forest, MS a safe place to live?

Forest is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 348 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 47. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Mississippi.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
348
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,120
Crime Index
2,468
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 287
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 47

Weather

What is the weather like in Forest, MS year-round?

Forest experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 92°F and cold winters dipping to 36°F. The area receives about 59 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 62% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
36°F
Max
58°F

Summer

Min
70°F
Max
92°F

Spring

Min
51°F
Max
76°F

Fall

Min
54°F
Max
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches
59 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
62%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $38,200 and a low poverty rate of 27.4%. Over 78% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 10% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 23 minutes, and almost 0% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$31,700
Household Income
$38,200
Family Income
$44,600
Per Capita Income
$17,900
Income Male
$29,200
Income Female
$22,800
Poverty Rate
27.4%
Non English Speakers
15.4%
Rent
$720
Unemployment Rate
6.7%
Public Transport Usage
0.4%
Commute Time
22.6 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
77.6%
Bachelors or More
10.1%

Education

How are the schools in Forest, MS?

Forest offers quality education options, with public schools like Forest High School and Forest Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including East Central Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Forest High School
Street
1010 E. Parkway Street
Phone
601-469-3250
Students
520
Student Teacher Ratio
14.8
Name
Forest Elementary School
Street
450 E. 1st Street
Phone
601-469-2072
Students
630
Student Teacher Ratio
15.2

Private Schools

Name
Scott Central Attendance Center
Street
2535 Hwy 21
Phone
601-469-4883
Students
620

Colleges

Name
East Central Community College
City
Decatur
State
MS
Distance
26 miles
Students
2,400

Healthcare

Forest residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Lackey Memorial Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.2 per 1,000 people and 82.2% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Lackey Memorial Hospital
Address
330 North Broad Street, Forest, MS 39074
Phone
(601) 469-4151
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage
82.2%
Health Care Index
66.8

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Forest, MS?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $101,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 54%. The market has seen a 3.7% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 9.8%. Forest offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$101,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$720
Owner Occupied Rate
54.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate
9.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
3.7%
New Construction Rate
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate
0.6%

DMV Information

Residents of Forest handle vehicle services through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety - Driver Service Bureau, conveniently located in Forest. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Mississippi
Department
Mississippi Department of Public Safety - Driver Service Bureau
Address
2212 Hwy 35 S, Forest, MS 39074
Phone
(601) 469-1944

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.

FAQs About Moving to Forest, MS

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Forest, review the core fields on this page: population 5,430, median home value $101,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $720, commute time 22.6 minutes, and sunny days percentage 62%.

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