Average Opticians, Dispensing Salary in Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area
The average salary for Opticians, Dispensings in Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area is $36,570. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $36,570 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 21.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $43,610.
- 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 Louisiana nonmetropolitan area economy.
Salary Overview
The average Opticians, Dispensing in Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area earns-26.8%below the national average.
$17.6
$703
$3,048
Opticians, Dispensing Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Opticians, Dispensing salaries in Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area have experienced a rapid surge, growing by 21.9%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Opticians, Dispensing Salary Distribution in Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area
The earning potential for Opticians, Dispensings in Southwest Louisiana 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 $30,020, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $43,610.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $30,020 | $14.4 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $27,428 | $13.2 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $34,520 | $16.6 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $45,713 | $22 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $43,610 | $21 |
Detailed Opticians, Dispensing Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$36,570
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$36,570
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $36,570 to $36,570.
Job Market Context
30
Total Jobs
0.412
Per 1K Jobs
0.8
Location Quotient
Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area has 0.80x 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 Louisiana nonmetropolitan area.
Only 0.412 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. |
|---|---|---|
| Alexandria, LA Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $35,490↓ 3% | 37 mi |
| Baton Rouge, LA Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $39,560↑ 8% | 67 mi |
| Lafayette, LA Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $36,960↑ 1% | 67 mi |
| Monroe, LA Opticians, Dispensing Salary | $35,050↓ 4% | 94 mi |
Comparing salaries near Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area
Hiring Opticians, Dispensings?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Opticians, Dispensing make in Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Opticians, Dispensing in Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area is $36,570. This typically ranges from $30,020 for entry-level positions to $43,610 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area is 26.8% lower than the national median of $49,970.
Is Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area a good place for Opticians, Dispensings?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Opticians, Dispensing salary in Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area is $36,570 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Opticians, Dispensings?
The Cost of Living Index in Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Alexandria, LA ($35,490) and Baton Rouge, LA.
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 Louisiana nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 0.412 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 Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area