Gulfport vs Hattiesburg: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Gulfport, MS and Hattiesburg, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gulfport, MS | Hattiesburg, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,216▲ | $82,025 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.18▲ | $39.44 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,974▲ | $72,595 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,232▲ | $80,840 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,998▲ | $101,153 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $123,579▲ | $110,398 |
| Total Employed | 200▲ | 80 |
Verdict
Gulfport, MS offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hattiesburg.
The salary gap between Gulfport and Hattiesburg is $18,191 (22.18%). Gulfport's median is -3.08% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gulfport spans $42,605,Hattiesburg spans $37,803. Gulfport 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, Gulfport ($111,344 effective) pays 18.96% 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 Gulfport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($100,216/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($123,579)
- ✓Larger job market (200 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $111,344)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Hattiesburg if…
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Gulfport grew 11.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -13.5% growth in Hattiesburg over the same period.
Gulfport, MS
$87,060 (2019) → $97,240 (2025)
Hattiesburg, MS
$92,000 (2019) → $79,590 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gulfport, MS
Hattiesburg, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Gulfport or Hattiesburg?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gulfport and Hattiesburg?
Should I relocate from Gulfport to Hattiesburg as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Gulfport 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