Occupational Therapist Salary in Mississippi
The median occupational therapist salary in Mississippi is $75,476 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $93,180.
Occupational Therapist Salary Overview in Mississippi (2026)
Mississippi ranks #50 out of 50 states for occupational therapist compensation. Occupational Therapist salaries in Mississippi are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $75,476 per year, occupational therapists in Mississippi earn $17,704 less than the national median of $93,180.
A key advantage of working in Mississippi is its below-average cost of living (83% of the national index). This means the $75,476 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $90,935 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Mississippi is significant: occupational therapists at the 10th percentile earn $50,220, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $103,283 — a $53,063 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 $77,339.
Nationally, occupational therapist employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Mississippi and beyond.
Occupational Therapist Salary in Mississippi by Experience
In Mississippi, an entry-level occupational therapist earns around $51,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $97,200 per year. The cost of living index in Mississippi is 83% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Mississippi
| Percentile | MS Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $50,220 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,532 |
| Median (50th) | $75,476 |
| 75th Percentile | $88,938 |
| 90th Percentile | $103,283 |
Occupational Therapist Salary by City in Mississippi
The largest employment areas for occupational therapists in Mississippi include Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, and Hattiesburg. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Occupational Therapist in Mississippi
Education
Most occupational therapist positions require a master's degree. Mississippi has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Mississippi
Nationally, occupational therapist employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). Mississippi's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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