Columbus vs Hattiesburg: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Columbus, MS and Hattiesburg, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, MS | Hattiesburg, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $83,327▲ | $82,025 |
| Hourly Rate | $40.06▲ | $39.44 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,170 | $72,595▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $72,887 | $80,840▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $92,678 | $101,153▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $99,987 | $110,398▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 80▲ |
Verdict
Columbus and Hattiesburg are closely matched on overall occupational therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Hattiesburg is $1,302 (1.59%). Columbus's median is -19.41% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $39,817,Hattiesburg spans $37,803. Columbus 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, Columbus ($97,231 effective) pays 3.88% more than Hattiesburg ($93,601 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($83,327/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $97,231)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Hattiesburg if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($110,398)
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Columbus grew 14.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -13.5% growth in Hattiesburg over the same period.
Columbus, MS
$70,917 (2024) → $80,853 (2025)
Hattiesburg, MS
$92,000 (2019) → $79,590 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, MS
Hattiesburg, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Columbus or Hattiesburg?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Hattiesburg?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Hattiesburg as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Columbus vs Hattiesburg?
Written by Jordan Miller, OTR/L
Career Analyst
Jordan has 10 years of experience in occupational therapy. They specialize in pediatrics and work in a rehabilitation clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.06% 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 Jordan Miller, OTR/L, a licensed occupational therapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov