Laurel vs Southaven: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Laurel, MS and Southaven, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Laurel, MS | Southaven, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $111,448 | $118,541▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $53.58 | $56.99▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,114 | $68,954▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $92,760 | $97,046▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $130,927 | $140,323▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $154,243 | $169,619▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 14▲ |
Verdict
Southaven, MS offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Laurel.
The salary gap between Laurel and Southaven is $7,093 (6.36%). Southaven's median is -15.70% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Laurel spans $87,129,Southaven spans $100,665. Southaven has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Southaven ($138,321 effective) pays 6.36% more than Laurel ($130,044 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Laurel if…
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Southaven if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($118,541/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($169,619)
- ✓Larger job market (14 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $138,321)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Laurel grew 21.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.9% growth in Southaven over the same period.
Laurel, MS
$88,771 (2024) → $108,244 (2025)
Southaven, MS
$94,420 (2024) → $115,133 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Laurel, MS
Southaven, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Laurel or Southaven?
What is the hourly rate difference between Laurel and Southaven?
Should I relocate from Laurel to Southaven as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Laurel vs Southaven?
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