Physical Therapist in Gulfport, MS

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Physical Therapists considering a move to Gulfport, MS.

The Salary Picture: Where Gulfport Stands

As a Physical Therapist considering Gulfport, the first question is always about the money. Let's cut right to it: the median salary for a Physical Therapist in Gulfport is $96,509/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $46.4/hour. At first glance, this looks slightly under the national average of $99,710/year, but that number is misleading. It doesn't account for Gulfport's significantly lower cost of living.

Insider Tip: Don't let the national average fool you. A PT earning the national average in a place like Los Angeles or Boston is barely scraping by. In Gulfport, that $96,509 buys a much higher quality of life. You're working with a regional economy where healthcare is a primary driver, thanks to our large retiree population and major employers like Memorial Hospital at Gulfport.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Your earning potential will climb as you gain experience and specialize. Here’s a realistic breakdown for the Gulfport market:

Experience Level	Typical Gulfport Salary Range	Key Factors
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$75,000 - $85,000	New grads often start in outpatient clinics or hospital rotations. Salary can be lower if you take a position in a rural satellite clinic.
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$90,000 - $105,000	This is where you hit the median. Specializing in orthopedics or neurology can push you to the top of this bracket.
Senior-Level (8-12 years)	$105,000 - $120,000	Clinical leads, managers, or those with dual certifications (e.g., OCS, NCS). Positions at major hospitals or private practices with high caseloads.
Expert/Leadership (12+ years)	$120,000+	Clinic directors, private practice owners, or consultants. Top earners often have a niche (e.g., pelvic health, sports performance) that attracts a premium clientele.

How Gulfport Compares to Other Mississippi Cities

Gulfport is part of the larger Gulfport-Biloxi metro area, which has a population of 72,824. It's a major hub on the Coast, but it's not the state capital or its largest city. Here’s how it stacks up:

• Jackson: The state capital has a larger healthcare network (UMMC, St. Dominic) and slightly higher salaries, but the cost of living is also higher. The median salary in Jackson is around $98,000, but you'll pay more for housing and daily expenses.
• Hattiesburg: Home to the University of Southern Mississippi and a major medical center (Forrest General), Hattiesburg offers similar salaries (median ~$95,000) but with a different vibe—more of a college town.
• Southaven/DeSoto County: In the northern part of the state near Memphis, this area has seen rapid growth. Salaries are competitive with Gulfport (~$97,000 median), but the job market is more influenced by the Memphis metro economy.

Key Insight: Gulfport's job market for PTs is robust but specific. The 145 jobs in the metro area are concentrated in a few major systems. Competition for these roles is steady, but turnover is low because of the quality of life. The 10-year job growth of 14% is above the national average for PTs, driven by an aging population and increased focus on outpatient rehab.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get practical. A median salary of $96,509 sounds great, but what’s left after Uncle Sam and the landlord? Gulfport’s cost of living index is 89.3 (US avg = 100), meaning everything is about 11% cheaper than the national average. The biggest win? Housing.

Average 1BR Rent: $923/month. This is a game-changer.

Here’s a monthly budget breakdown for a single PT earning the median salary of $96,509. We'll assume a standard tax filing (single, no dependents) and use Mississippi's state income tax (which ranges from 0% to 5%).

Category	Monthly Amount	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$8,042	($96,509 / 12)
Estimated Taxes (Fed + State)	-$2,170	This is an estimate. A financial advisor can provide a precise figure.
Net Monthly Pay (Take-Home)	$5,872	This is your starting point.
Rent (1BR Average)	-$923	You can find quality apartments in safe neighborhoods for this price.
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet)	-$200	Gulfport's climate means AC costs in summer, but winters are mild.
Groceries	-$400	The cost of groceries is slightly below the national average.
Car Payment/Insurance	-$500	A reliable car is a necessity in Gulfport. Public transit is limited.
Health Insurance (if not covered)	-$300	Most full-time PT roles offer benefits, but this is a common out-of-pocket cost.
Discretionary Spending	$1,549	This leaves a significant cushion for savings, travel, dining out, or paying down student loans.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Absolutely. The median home price in Gulfport is around $210,000. With a $5,872 monthly take-home, a mortgage on a $200,000 home (with 20% down) would be roughly $1,200/month including taxes and insurance. That's just 20% of your take-home pay, well within the recommended 28-30% threshold. Many PTs in Gulfport own their homes, often within 5-10 years of starting their careers.

Where the Jobs Are: Gulfport's Major Employers

The Gulfport job market is dominated by a few key players. Knowing who they are and how they operate is crucial for a successful job search.

1. Memorial Hospital at Gulfport: The largest employer on the MS Gulf Coast. They have a massive outpatient rehab network and inpatient PT services. Hiring is consistent, especially for new graduates through their residency programs. Insider Tip: Getting your foot in the door here is a long-term career move. Benefits are excellent, and the experience is unparalleled.

2. Singing River Health System: Based in nearby Pascagoula, this system is a major competitor and covers a large catchment area. They have multiple outpatient clinics and a strong inpatient rehab unit. They are known for competitive pay and a family-like culture.

3. Biloxi VA Medical Center: A huge employer in the region. VA PTs work with a veteran population, which requires a specific skillset (geriatrics, amputee rehab, PTSD-related mobility issues). Federal jobs come with fantastic benefits and job security. Hiring cycles are slower but worth the wait.

4. Private Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Clinics: Gulfport has a thriving private practice scene, especially in areas like D'Iberville and near the hospitals. Clinics like Coastal Orthopaedics or Gulf Coast Physical Therapy often seek PTs with sports certifications (SCS) or manual therapy skills (OCS). Pay can be higher here, but benefits may vary.

5. Large National Rehab Companies (e.g., ATI, Select Medical): These companies have a presence in Gulfport, often running outpatient clinics attached to hospitals or standalone locations. They offer structured career ladders and CEU allowances, which is great for new grads.

6. Home Health Agencies: With Gulfport's retiree population, home health is a growing sector. Companies like Visiting Nurse Association or Kindred at Home hire PTs for mobile roles. This offers flexibility but requires strong time-management skills.

Hiring Trends: The market favors PTs with orthopedic or neurological specialties. There's also a growing demand for pelvic health PTs to serve the postpartum and incontinence population. The 145 jobs in the metro area are fairly stable; you won't see massive hiring sprees, but openings are filled methodically.

Getting Licensed in MS

Mississippi’s licensing process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

• Requirements: You must graduate from a CAPTE-accredited DPT program, pass the national NPTE (National Physical Therapy Examination), and complete the Mississippi Jurisprudence Exam. You also need to complete a background check.
• Cost: The total cost is approximately $400-$500. This includes the NPTE exam fee ($500, but some schools include this), the state application fee ($100), and the background check (~$50).
• Timeline: If you're a new graduate, your school will likely handle the initial paperwork. The process can take 6-8 weeks after submitting a complete application to the Mississippi State Board of Physical Therapy. It's wise to apply for your license as soon as you have your NPTE passing score.

Insider Tip: Mississippi is part of the Physical Therapy Compact (PT Compact). If you already hold a license in another compact state (like Louisiana, Tennessee, or Alabama), you can get a Mississippi license much faster and with less hassle. This is a huge advantage for therapists moving from neighboring states.

Best Neighborhoods for Physical Therapists

Where you live affects your commute and lifestyle. Gulfport is spread out, but these neighborhoods are popular with healthcare professionals.

1. D'Iberville (North Gulfport): A fast-growing suburb with new apartment complexes and single-family homes. It's close to the I-10/I-110 interchange, making commutes to Memorial Hospital or the VA quick (10-15 mins). The vibe is family-friendly with lots of shopping and dining options.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $950 - $1,100/month

2. Long Beach (East of Gulfport): A quieter, more established community with a small-town feel. It's home to many young professionals and families. The commute to Gulfport’s main hospitals is about 15-20 minutes. You'll find charming older homes and newer subdivisions.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $850 - $1,000/month

3. Central Gulfport (Near the Hospitals): Living in the heart of the city puts you minutes from Memorial Hospital and clinics. This area has a mix of older apartments and renovated homes. It's walkable to some local eateries and parks. The commute is virtually nonexistent if you work downtown.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $800 - $950/month

4. Pass Christian (West of Gulfport): A more affluent, coastal community known for its beautiful beaches and historic downtown. It's a 20-30 minute commute to Gulfport jobs, but the lifestyle is worth it for many. It's quieter, with a strong sense of community.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $900 - $1,200/month

5. Vancleave (North, inland): If you want more land and a rural setting, Vancleave is a popular choice. It's about a 25-minute commute but offers larger properties and lower property taxes. You'll need a reliable car, but the peace and quiet are a major draw.

   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $700 - $900/month (mostly single-family homes/rentals)

The Long Game: Career Growth

A career in Gulfport isn't just about a job; it's about building a life. The 10-year job growth of 14% signals a healthy, expanding market.

• Specialty Premiums: While the median salary is $96,509, specialization can significantly boost your earnings. A PT with an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) certification or a Sports Clinical Specialist (SCS) can command a 10-15% premium. Pelvic Health specialists are in such high demand that they often have their own waitlists, allowing for private practice opportunities.
• Advancement Paths: The clear path at large employers like Memorial is from clinician to Clinical Lead to Manager. This path often involves management training and a shift from direct patient care. Another viable path is moving into home health or home health management, which offers higher per-visit rates and autonomy.
• 10-Year Outlook: Gulfport's population is aging, and the post-hurricane rebuilds have created a permanent influx of new residents. This ensures a steady stream of patients needing orthopedic, cardiac, and geriatric care. The rise of direct-access (patients seeing PTs without a doctor's referral) is also growing in Mississippi, opening the door for more entrepreneurial PTs to start cash-based practices for specialized services.

The Verdict: Is Gulfport Right for You?

Gulfport offers a compelling package for Physical Therapists, but it's not for everyone. Here’s the honest breakdown.

Pros	Cons
High Quality of Life: Low cost of living ($923 rent, 89.3 COL index) means your salary goes far.	Limited Specialties: While growing, the market for ultra-niche specialties (e.g., vestibular, pediatric) is smaller than in major metros.
Strong Job Market: Steady demand (145 jobs, 14% growth) with major employers like Memorial and the VA.	Heat & Humidity: Summers are long, hot, and humid, which can be a shock if you're from a cooler climate.
Outdoor Lifestyle: Beaches, fishing, and parks are minutes away. Great for work-life balance.	Car-Dependent: You need a car. Public transportation is not a viable option for most commutes.
Friendly Community: The Coast has a tight-knit, Southern hospitality vibe. It's easy to build a social network.	Hurricane Risk: Living on the Gulf Coast means preparing for hurricane season (June-November). It's a manageable but real factor.
Lower Taxes: No state tax on Social Security benefits and low property taxes.	Smaller Metro Area: Fewer networking events, conferences, and consumer choices compared to a major city.

Final Recommendation: Gulfport is an excellent choice for PTs who prioritize lifestyle and financial stability over the hustle of a large metropolitan area. It's ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors, don't mind the heat, and are looking to buy a home or start a family. If you're a new grad, it's a fantastic place to start with strong mentorship at large hospitals. If you're an experienced specialist, you'll find a supportive community and the potential to fill a market gap. For the right person, Gulfport isn't just a place to work—it's a place to live well.

FAQs

1. Is it easy to find a job as a new graduate in Gulfport?
Yes, but be strategic. Large employers like Memorial Hospital have structured new graduate residency programs, which are highly competitive but provide excellent training. Applying to outpatient clinics and home health agencies can also yield results. Start your search 3-6 months before graduation.

2. What is the licensing process like if I'm moving from another state?
If your home state is part of the PT Compact (which includes Louisiana, Tennessee, and Alabama), the process is streamlined. You'll apply for a Mississippi privilege to practice, which is faster and cheaper. If not, you'll apply for a full license, which requires the NPTE and takes about 6-8 weeks.

3. How is the work-life balance for PTs in Gulfport?
Generally excellent. Most outpatient clinics operate on a standard 8 am - 5 pm schedule. Hospital PTs may have weekend or on-call shifts, but the pace is often less frantic than in larger cities. The proximity to the beach means many PTs enjoy a quick post-work swim or a weekend of fishing.

4. Do I need to specialize to make a good living?
No. The median salary of $96,509 is achievable as a generalist. However, specializing can open doors to higher pay, private practice, and greater job satisfaction. It's not a requirement, but it's a powerful career accelerator.

5. What's the best way to network with other PTs in the area?
Join the Mississippi Physical Therapy Association (MPTA). They have an annual conference and local networking events. Also, connect with therapists on LinkedIn who work at Memorial, Singing River, or the VA. The PT community on the Coast is small and supportive—reaching out for an informational coffee chat is often welcomed.

Data Sources for this guide: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for national and state salary averages, the Mississippi State Board of Physical Therapy for licensing requirements, Zillow and RentCafe for rental and housing cost data, and local job postings for employer trends. Salary data is specific to the Gulfport-Biloxi metro area as provided.