Average Opticians, Dispensing Salary in Columbus, GA-AL
The average salary for Opticians, Dispensings in Columbus, GA-AL is $43,470. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Columbus, GA-AL may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $43,470 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 9.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $61,360.
- Outlook: The current demand for Opticians, Dispensings is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 70 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Columbus, GA-AL economy.
Salary Overview
The average Opticians, Dispensing in Columbus, GA-AL earns-13.0%below the national average.
$20.9
$836
$3,623
Opticians, Dispensing Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 3 years, Opticians, Dispensing salaries in Columbus, GA-AL have remained stable with a modest increase of 9.5%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Opticians, Dispensing Salary Distribution in Columbus, GA-AL
The earning potential for Opticians, Dispensings in Columbus, GA-AL varies significantly by experience level. The salary gap is relatively narrow, suggesting consistent and predictable earnings from entry-level to senior positions. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $30,200, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $61,360.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $30,200 | $14.5 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $32,603 | $15.7 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $37,610 | $18.1 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $54,338 | $26.1 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $61,360 | $29.5 |
Detailed Opticians, Dispensing Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$43,470
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$43,470
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Columbus, GA-AL, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $43,470 to $43,470.
Job Market Context
70
Total Jobs
0.602
Per 1K Jobs
1.16
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.16, Columbus, GA-AL has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Opticians, Dispensing roles compared to the national norm.
70 people work as Opticians, Dispensing in Columbus, GA-AL.
Only 0.602 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Opticians, Dispensing roles — this is a niche profession in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Opticians, Dispensing
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Auburn-Opelika, AL Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $33,190↓ 24% | 36 mi |
| Warner Robins, GA Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $44,040↑ 1% | 72 mi |
| Macon-Bibb County, GA Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $46,440↑ 7% | 72 mi |
| Albany, GA Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $44,120↑ 1% | 76 mi |
| South Georgia nonmetropolitan area Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $53,370↑ 23% | 81 mi |
Comparing salaries near Columbus, GA-AL
Hiring Opticians, Dispensings?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Opticians, Dispensing make in Columbus, GA-AL?
The median annual salary for a Opticians, Dispensing in Columbus, GA-AL is $43,470. This typically ranges from $30,200 for entry-level positions to $61,360 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Columbus, GA-AL is 13.0% lower than the national median of $49,970.
Is Columbus, GA-AL a good place for Opticians, Dispensings?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Opticians, Dispensing salary in Columbus, GA-AL is $43,470 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Columbus, GA-AL. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Columbus, GA-AL a good place to live for Opticians, Dispensings?
The Cost of Living Index in Columbus, GA-AL is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Columbus, GA-AL?
Some top paying nearby cities include Auburn-Opelika, AL ($33,190) and Warner Robins, GA.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 70 employees in the Columbus, GA-AL area with a job density of 0.602 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Opticians, Dispensing • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Columbus, GA-AL