Gulfport vs Horn Lake: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Gulfport, MS and Horn Lake, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gulfport, MS | Horn Lake, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $120,039▲ | $118,054 |
| Hourly Rate | $57.71▲ | $56.76 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,623▲ | $68,471 |
| 25th Percentile | $92,879 | $93,309▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $143,906▲ | $137,456 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $182,403▲ | $174,573 |
| Total Employed | 14▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Gulfport, MS offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Horn Lake.
The salary gap between Gulfport and Horn Lake is $1,985 (1.68%). Gulfport's median is -14.63% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gulfport spans $112,780,Horn Lake spans $106,102. Gulfport has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Gulfport ($140,069 effective) pays 1.68% more than Horn Lake ($137,753 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gulfport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($120,039/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($182,403)
- ✓Larger job market (14 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $140,069)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Horn Lake if…
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Gulfport grew 21.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.9% growth in Horn Lake over the same period.
Gulfport, MS
$95,613 (2024) → $116,588 (2025)
Horn Lake, MS
$94,032 (2024) → $114,660 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gulfport, MS
Horn Lake, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Gulfport or Horn Lake?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gulfport and Horn Lake?
Should I relocate from Gulfport to Horn Lake as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Gulfport vs Horn Lake?
Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov