Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Mississippi
The median heavy equipment operator salary in Mississippi is $43,608 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $52,540.
Heavy Equipment Operator Salary Overview in Mississippi (2026)
Mississippi ranks #50 out of 50 states for heavy equipment operator compensation. Heavy Equipment Operator salaries in Mississippi are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $43,608 per year, heavy equipment operators in Mississippi earn $8,932 less than the national median of $52,540.
A key advantage of working in Mississippi is its below-average cost of living (83% of the national index). This means the $43,608 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $52,540 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Mississippi is significant: heavy equipment operators at the 10th percentile earn $28,220, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $69,720 — a $41,500 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Mississippi for this role is Jackson, where the median reaches $44,659.
Nationally, heavy equipment operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for heavy equipment operators across the country.
Heavy Equipment Operator Salary in Mississippi by Experience
In Mississippi, an entry-level heavy equipment operator earns around $29,880, while experienced professionals earn up to $66,400 per year. The cost of living index in Mississippi is 83% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Mississippi
| Percentile | MS Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,220 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,030 |
| Median (50th) | $43,608 |
| 75th Percentile | $56,440 |
| 90th Percentile | $69,720 |
Heavy Equipment Operator Salary by City in Mississippi
The largest employment areas for heavy equipment operators in Mississippi include Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, and Hattiesburg. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in Mississippi
Education
Most heavy equipment operator positions require a high school diploma. Mississippi has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Mississippi
Nationally, heavy equipment operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Mississippi's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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