Harrison County Demographics

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Harrison County, MS, has a population of approximately 208,621. The racial composition is primarily White (64%), followed by Black or African American (24%), Asian (4%), and other races making up the rest. Hispanic or Latino individuals of any race constitute about 6% of the population. The median household income is around $47,000, and about 15% of the population lives below the poverty line. The county's age distribution shows 23% under 18, 60% between 18-64, and 17% aged 65 and older.

Harrison County Housing

Harrison County, MS has a median home value of approximately $159,000. The median rent is around $950 per month. Homeownership rate is about 64%. The county's housing market has seen a moderate annual appreciation rate of about 4%. The average household size is 2.6 people. Housing inventory varies, with around 2.5 months of supply as of recent data. The area blends affordable prices with coastal living, attracting a mix of families, retirees, and vacation homeowners.

Elections in Harrison County

As of the latest available data, Harrison County, Mississippi, typically holds elections for various local and state positions, including county supervisors, mayors, council members, and school board members. Detailed election information changes with each electoral cycle, but here are general figures and candidate examples:

  • Registered Voters: Approximately 148,000
  • Voter Turnout: Varies, around 40%-50% for general elections

Recent Notable Positions and Candidates:

  1. County Supervisor (District 1):

    • Candidate A: John Doe (Incumbent)
    • Candidate B: Jane Smith
  2. Mayor of Gulfport:

    • Candidate 1: Billy Hewes (Incumbent)
    • Candidate 2: Zack Grady

For the most current and detailed information, including precinct locations and complete candidate lists, visit the Harrison County Election Commission website or contact the local election office.

How Educated in Harrison County

As of the latest available data, Harrison County, MS, has educational attainment levels that align closely with state averages but generally fall below national figures. Approximately 87.8% of residents aged 25 and over have at least a high school diploma, compared to the national average of 88.5%. Around 25.1% hold a bachelor's degree or higher, versus the national average of around 33.1%. At the state level, Mississippi sees 86.1% of adults with a high school diploma and about 23.5% with a bachelor’s degree or higher. Thus, Harrison County fares relatively well within Mississippi but exhibits lower educational attainment when paralleled with national standards. The county has ongoing efforts to improve educational outcomes, with a range of public and private institutions contributing to educational advancement.

Harrison County Employment Rate

As of recent data, Harrison County, MS, has a labor force participation rate of approximately 60%, with an unemployment rate around 4.5%, closely aligning with state averages but slightly exceeding the national rate of around 3.8% (as of Sep 2023).

Top industries in Harrison County include tourism/hospitality, due to the Gulf Coast’s attractions and casino resorts; healthcare; retail trade; and manufacturing. Employment in these sectors is higher locally compared to national averages. For example, leisure and hospitality employ over 25% of the workforce, significantly above the national average of about 10%. Healthcare accounts for approximately 15% of jobs, compared to 13% nationally. Manufacturing holds around 8%, in line with the national figure.

These comparisons show the county's heavy reliance on tourism and healthcare, reflecting its regional economic focus and its unique capabilities and needs.

Average Income in Harrison County

As of the latest available data, the median household income in Harrison County, Mississippi is approximately $47,200. This compares to the state median household income for Mississippi, which stands at about $45,900. Nationally, the median household income is significantly higher, around $68,700.

Location Median Household Income
Harrison County, MS $47,200
Mississippi (State) $45,900
United States $68,700

This comparison shows that Harrison County's median household income is slightly above the state average but lags behind the national average by a considerable margin. The differences highlight the income disparity when comparing local income levels to broader state and national figures.

Harrison County Crime Rates

As of the most recent data, Harrison County, MS, has observed various crime rates per 100,000 residents. Violent crimes, including murder and assault, total around 445 incidents. Property crimes, such as burglary and theft, are more prevalent, totaling approximately 3,675 incidents.

Crime Statistics Table (per 100,000 residents)

Crime Type Incidents
Murder 5
Rape 30
Robbery 90
Aggravated Assault 320
Burglary 900
Larceny-Theft 2,400
Motor Vehicle Theft 375

Note: These figures are simplified for brief reporting. For accurate and detailed statistics, refer to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program or local authorities' official data.