Jackson vs Vicksburg: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Jackson, MS and Vicksburg, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jackson, MS | Vicksburg, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $126,404▲ | $115,698 |
| Hourly Rate | $60.78▲ | $55.63 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $72,154▲ | $67,216 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,078▲ | $94,510 |
| 75th Percentile | $139,727▲ | $136,523 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $208,782▲ | $157,689 |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Jackson, MS offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Vicksburg.
The salary gap between Jackson and Vicksburg is $10,706 (9.25%). Jackson's median is -10.10% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jackson spans $136,628,Vicksburg spans $90,473. Jackson 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, Jackson ($141,950 effective) pays 5.15% more than Vicksburg ($135,004 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jackson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($126,404/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($208,782)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $141,950)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Vicksburg if…
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Jackson grew 9.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 21.9% growth in Vicksburg over the same period.
Jackson, MS
$112,030 (2019) → $122,770 (2025)
Vicksburg, MS
$92,156 (2024) → $112,372 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jackson, MS
Vicksburg, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Jackson or Vicksburg?
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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