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Average Optometrists Salary in Colorado

Optometrists in Colorado earn an impressive average annual salary of $144,980, surpassing the national average of $141,560. This elevated compensation likely reflects the state's robust economy and a growing demand for specialized eye care services, potentially influenced by factors such as population growth and healthcare accessibility needs within the state.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $144,980 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 11.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $231,400.
  • Outlook: Colorado's optometry job market appears stable and moderately concentrated, with a total local workforce of 980 professionals. The Location Quotient of 1.25 suggests a slightly higher concentration of optometrists in Colorado compared to the national average, indicating a healthy demand that supports the existing workforce and suggests potential for continued employment opportunities.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$144,980

The average Optometrists in Colorado earns+2.4%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$69.7

Weekly

$2,788

Monthly

$12,082

Optometrists Salary Distribution in Colorado

Salary progression for optometrists in Colorado is strongly tied to experience. Entry-level positions typically start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills can command significantly higher salaries, often reaching the upper percentiles. The gap between entry-level and senior salaries signifies clear career advancement opportunities and the value placed on expertise within the field.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience.10% (Entry)$61,500$29.6
Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures.25% (Junior)$108,735$52.3
Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification.50% (Median)$137,370$66
SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases.75% (Senior)$181,225$87.1
Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider.90% (Expert)$231,400$111.3

Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$144,980

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$137,422

Adjusted for COL (105.5)

An average annual salary of $144,980 in Colorado offers a strong purchasing power, though it's important to consider the local Cost of Living Index of 105.5. This index indicates that expenses in Colorado are approximately 5.5% higher than the national average. Therefore, while the nominal salary is attractive, the actual disposable income will be slightly moderated by the higher cost of goods and services within the state.

Job Market Context

980

Total Jobs

0.339

Per 1K Jobs

1.25

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.25, Colorado has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Optometrists roles compared to the national norm.

With a Location Quotient of 1.25, Colorado exhibits a slightly higher concentration of optometrists than the national average. This suggests that the job market is competitive but also indicates a robust demand for these professionals. Employers may find a solid pool of talent, while job seekers can expect a market that values their specialized skills, potentially leading to more opportunities and competitive offers.

Nearby Job Markets

Nearby Cities for Optometrists

CitySalaryDist.
Colorado Springs, CO Optometrists Salary$125,580↓ 13%32 mi
Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO Optometrists Salary$149,430↑ 3%54 mi
Boulder, CO Optometrists Salary$179,930↑ 24%67 mi

Comparing salaries near Colorado

Hiring Optometristss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Optometrists make in Colorado?

The median annual salary for a Optometrists in Colorado is $144,980. This typically ranges from $61,500 for entry-level positions to $231,400 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Colorado is 2.4% higher than the national median of $141,560.

Is Colorado a lucrative place for Optometrists?

Yes, Colorado offers a lucrative environment for Optometrists.Optometrists in Colorado earn an average of $144,980 annually, which is higher than the national average. Combined with a slightly elevated concentration of professionals, this indicates a strong and rewarding market.

Is Colorado a good place to live for Optometrists?

The Cost of Living Index in Colorado is 105.5. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Colorado?

Some top paying nearby cities include Colorado Springs, CO ($125,580) and Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO.

How does Colorado's optometrist salary compare to the national average?

Optometrists in Colorado earn an average of $144,980 annually, which is approximately $3,420 more than the national average of $141,560.

What is the concentration of optometrists in Colorado?

Colorado has a Location Quotient of 1.25 for optometrists, meaning the concentration of these professionals is 25% higher than the national average.

How does the cost of living affect an optometrist's salary in Colorado?

Colorado's Cost of Living Index is 105.5, meaning it is 5.5% more expensive than the national average. This slightly higher cost of living moderates the impact of the above-average salary.

What is the total number of optometrists in Colorado?

There are approximately 980 optometrists employed in Colorado, representing a significant professional community within the state.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 980 employees in the Colorado area with a job density of 0.339 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.

Semantic Salary Analysis for Optometrists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Colorado