Average Opticians, Dispensing Salary in Merced, CA
The average salary for a Opticians, Dispensing in Merced, CA is $52,250. This compensation is in line with national standards, reflecting a balanced and stable local job market.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $52,250 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 13.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $69,120.
- Outlook: The current demand for Opticians, Dispensings is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 40 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Merced, CA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Opticians, Dispensing in Merced, CA earns+4.6%above the national average.
$25.1
$1,005
$4,354
Opticians, Dispensing Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 3 years, Opticians, Dispensing salaries in Merced, CA have shown healthy growth of 13.1%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Opticians, Dispensing Salary Distribution in Merced, CA
The earning potential for Opticians, Dispensings in Merced, CA 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 $37,250, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $69,120.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $37,250 | $17.9 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $39,188 | $18.8 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $47,310 | $22.7 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $65,313 | $31.4 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $69,120 | $33.2 |
Detailed Opticians, Dispensing Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$52,250
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$52,250
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Merced, CA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $52,250 to $52,250.
Job Market Context
40
Total Jobs
0.465
Per 1K Jobs
0.9
Location Quotient
Merced, CA has 0.90x the national average concentration of Opticians, Dispensing jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
40 people work as Opticians, Dispensing in Merced, CA.
Only 0.465 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. |
|---|---|---|
| Modesto, CA Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $55,960↑ 7% | 37 mi |
| Fresno, CA Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $53,770↑ 3% | 52 mi |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $58,620↑ 12% | 65 mi |
| Salinas, CA Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $56,320↑ 8% | 77 mi |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $67,010↑ 28% | 77 mi |
Comparing salaries near Merced, CA
Hiring Opticians, Dispensings?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Opticians, Dispensing make in Merced, CA?
The median annual salary for a Opticians, Dispensing in Merced, CA is $52,250. This typically ranges from $37,250 for entry-level positions to $69,120 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Merced, CA is 4.6% higher than the national median of $49,970.
Is Merced, CA a good place for Opticians, Dispensings?
Yes, Merced, CA is financially attractive for Opticians, Dispensings. The average salary of $52,250 exceeds the national average. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Merced, CA a good place to live for Opticians, Dispensings?
The Cost of Living Index in Merced, CA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Merced, CA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Modesto, CA ($55,960) and Fresno, CA.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 40 employees in the Merced, CA area with a job density of 0.465 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 Merced, CA