Hattiesburg is somewhat walkable, particularly in the downtown area and neighborhoods like The Avenues, where a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions are clustered, allowing travelers to accomplish some errands on foot. The presence of sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets enhances this walkability. However, for a majority of daily needs, a car might be necessary, as some distances are not conducive to walking due to the spread-out nature common to many places in Mississippi.

Public transit options in Hattiesburg are limited in both coverage and frequency. The Hub City Transit system offers basic bus services during weekdays, but the fixed routes and limited service hours can be inconvenient for travelers looking to explore or commute beyond standard times. Although budget-friendly, the system is more suited for local residents with predictable schedules rather than travelers requiring flexibility. Ridesharing options like Uber and Lyft are alternatives, particularly outside of bus operating hours.

Hattiesburg is decently bike-friendly, particularly in downtown areas and neighborhoods like Audubon and Carterville. Infrastructure such as bike lanes and trails like the 44-mile Longleaf Trace support biking activities. Nonetheless, the overall landscape requires careful route planning due to gaps in cycling infrastructure. The city promotes biking culture through community events, which helps raise awareness and encourages cycling as a viable mode of transport for travelers.