Optometrist Salary in Mississippi
The median optometrist salary in Mississippi is $101,728 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in Mississippi (2026)
Mississippi ranks #50 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Optometrist salaries in Mississippi are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $101,728 per year, optometrists in Mississippi earn $23,862 less than the national median of $125,590.
A key advantage of working in Mississippi is its below-average cost of living (83% of the national index). This means the $101,728 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $122,564 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Mississippi is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $63,180, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $155,520 — a $92,340 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 $104,240.
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for optometrists across the country.
Optometrist Salary in Mississippi by Experience
In Mississippi, an entry-level optometrist earns around $66,420, while experienced professionals earn up to $144,180 per year. The cost of living index in Mississippi is 83% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Mississippi
| Percentile | MS Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,180 |
| 25th Percentile | $81,000 |
| Median (50th) | $101,728 |
| 75th Percentile | $127,980 |
| 90th Percentile | $155,520 |
Optometrist Salary by City in Mississippi
The largest employment areas for optometrists in Mississippi include Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, and Hattiesburg. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Optometrist in Mississippi
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Mississippi has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Mississippi
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Mississippi's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Optometrists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $42,452 over your career trajectory.
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