If you are considering relocating to Keesler Air Force Base, you are likely to have questions about the city's population. Here are some answers. The city has a population of approximately 40,000 people. It is located less than a mile from the Gulf of Mexico, so it is prone to flooding during major storms. Hurricane Katrina directly struck Keesler Afb in 2005. The storm swept through the city, damaging countless homes, churches, and public buildings. Because of the high risk of hurricanes, Keesler AFB often issues mandatory evacuation orders during hurricanes. The base is also inland, to the west, which makes it more prone to flooding.
In the early 1990s, the Air Force underwent a major restructuring. Many of the station's associate units were reorganized and relocated. The 53d Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, a former active-duty unit, was inactivated. The unit was transferred to the Air Force Reserve in 1991 and reactivated on 30 June. Keesler's population grew by nearly doubling overnight.
The city is surrounded by several neighborhoods. Keesler is located between Gulfport and Ocean Springs, with Ocean Springs a short drive from the city. There are a variety of housing options in the city. Rental properties start at $555 for a one-bedroom unit and can range up to $189,000 for a three-bedroom house. This military base is home to several large military contractors.