Southaven vs Starkville: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Southaven, MS and Starkville, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Southaven, MS | Starkville, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $118,541▲ | $117,184 |
| Hourly Rate | $56.99▲ | $56.34 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,954▲ | $67,967 |
| 25th Percentile | $97,046 | $98,675▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $140,323▲ | $137,939 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $169,619▲ | $164,375 |
| Total Employed | 14▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Southaven, MS offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Starkville.
The salary gap between Southaven and Starkville is $1,357 (1.16%). 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 Southaven spans $100,665,Starkville spans $96,408. Southaven 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, Southaven ($138,321 effective) pays 1.16% more than Starkville ($136,737 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
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
Choose Starkville if…
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Southaven grew 21.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.9% growth in Starkville over the same period.
Southaven, MS
$94,420 (2024) → $115,133 (2025)
Starkville, MS
$93,339 (2024) → $113,815 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Southaven, MS
Starkville, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Southaven or Starkville?
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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