Pascagoula’s economy grew 6.2 percent in 2013, making it the third fastest growing local economy in the nation. That’s based on data published by the Conference of Mayors and produced by IHS Global Insight. Pascagoula’s employment was up 3.1 percent, 23rd best in the nation. The report says Pascagoula benefits from Ingalls Shipbuilding with 11,000 workers, and is also benefitting from the U.S. energy boom. Shipments of liquefied natural gas through the Port of Pascagoula have been rising. But Pascagoula’s economy has been volatile, too. Unemployment remains high. (Source: USA Today, 02/01/14)