Hattiesburg vs Vicksburg: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Hattiesburg, MS and Vicksburg, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hattiesburg, MS | Vicksburg, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $114,976 | $115,698▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $55.28 | $55.63▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,931 | $67,216▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $94,194 | $94,510▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $137,090▲ | $136,523 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $164,151▲ | $157,689 |
| Total Employed | 7▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Hattiesburg and Vicksburg are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Hattiesburg and Vicksburg is $722 (0.63%). Vicksburg's median is -17.72% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hattiesburg spans $97,220,Vicksburg spans $90,473. Hattiesburg 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, Vicksburg ($135,004 effective) pays 0.63% more than Hattiesburg ($134,161 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hattiesburg if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($164,151)
- ✓Larger job market (7 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Vicksburg if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($115,698/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $135,004)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Hattiesburg grew 21.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.9% growth in Vicksburg over the same period.
Hattiesburg, MS
$91,581 (2024) → $111,671 (2025)
Vicksburg, MS
$92,156 (2024) → $112,372 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hattiesburg, MS
Vicksburg, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Hattiesburg or Vicksburg?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hattiesburg and Vicksburg?
Should I relocate from Hattiesburg to Vicksburg as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Hattiesburg vs Vicksburg?
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