Alabama vs Mississippi: Healthcare Job Market Comparison
Deep South healthcare. UAB anchors Alabama. Mississippi has some of the nation's most underserved markets.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Alabama | Mississippi |
|---|---|---|
| Avg RN salary (BLS May 2024) | $68,290 | $66,980 |
| Cost of living (100 = US avg) | 88.1 | 85.6 |
| State income tax (top rate) | 5% | 4.4% |
Salary figures are approximate, drawn from public sources including BLS.
Notable Health Systems
Alabama
- • UAB Health
- • Huntsville Hospital
- • DCH Health System
Mississippi
- • University of Mississippi Medical Center
- • Baptist Memorial
- • North Mississippi Health
Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays nurses more, Alabama or Mississippi?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), registered nurses in Alabama earn an average of $68,290, compared to $66,980 in Mississippi. The gap is roughly $1,310 per year before adjusting for cost of living.
How does the cost of living compare between Alabama and Mississippi?
Using the MERIC Q4 2024 cost-of-living index (100 = national average), Alabama is 88.1 and Mississippi is 85.6. Mississippi (85.6) is the more affordable of the two, while Alabama (88.1) is more expensive. Housing is typically the largest driver of these differences.
Which state has a more favorable tax environment for healthcare providers?
Alabama has a top state income tax rate of 5%, while Mississippi's top rate is 4.4%. Always factor in property tax, sales tax, and local taxes before making a relocation decision. States with no income tax often offset through higher sales or property taxes.
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