SalaryNode

Average Opticians, Dispensing Salary in Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area

The average salary for Opticians, Dispensings in Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area is $35,660. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $35,660 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 12.4% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $44,620.
  • Outlook: The current demand for Opticians, Dispensings is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 30 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area economy.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$35,660

The average Opticians, Dispensing in Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area earns-28.6%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$17.1

Weekly

$686

Monthly

$2,972

Opticians, Dispensing Salary Distribution in Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area

The earning potential for Opticians, Dispensings in Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area 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 $29,660, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $44,620.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience.10% (Entry)$29,660$14.3
Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures.25% (Junior)$26,745$12.9
Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification.50% (Median)$34,850$16.8
SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases.75% (Senior)$44,575$21.4
Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider.90% (Expert)$44,620$21.5

Detailed Opticians, Dispensing Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$35,660

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$35,660

Adjusted for COL (100)

In Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $35,660 to $35,660.

Job Market Context

30

Total Jobs

0.466

Per 1K Jobs

0.9

Location Quotient

Below Average

Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area 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.

30 people work as Opticians, Dispensing in Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area.

Only 0.466 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

Comparing salaries near Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area

Hiring Opticians, Dispensings?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Opticians, Dispensing make in Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area?

The median annual salary for a Opticians, Dispensing in Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area is $35,660. This typically ranges from $29,660 for entry-level positions to $44,620 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area is 28.6% lower than the national median of $49,970.

Is Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area a good place for Opticians, Dispensings?

It depends on your priorities. While the average Opticians, Dispensing salary in Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area is $35,660 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area. See distinct detailed breakdown below.

Is Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Opticians, Dispensings?

The Cost of Living Index in Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area?

Some top paying nearby cities include Montgomery, AL ($35,540) and Birmingham, AL.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 30 employees in the Southwest Alabama nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 0.466 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.