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Average Optometrists Salary in Columbia, SC

The average salary for Optometristss in Columbia, SC is $117,800. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Columbia, SC may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $117,800 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 48.4% ↘ over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $156,070.
  • Outlook: The current demand for Optometristss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 90 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Columbia, SC economy.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$117,800

The average Optometrists in Columbia, SC earns-16.8%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$56.6

Weekly

$2,265

Monthly

$9,817

Optometrists Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC

The earning potential for Optometristss in Columbia, SC varies significantly by experience level. There is a substantial income gap, with top earners (90th percentile) making over 2.9x the starting salary. This indicates strong career progression opportunities. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $53,190, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $156,070.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience.10% (Entry)$53,190$25.6
Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures.25% (Junior)$88,350$42.5
Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification.50% (Median)$137,250$66
SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases.75% (Senior)$147,250$70.8
Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider.90% (Expert)$156,070$75

Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$117,800

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$117,800

Adjusted for COL (100)

In Columbia, SC, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $117,800 to $117,800.

Job Market Context

90

Total Jobs

0.221

Per 1K Jobs

0.81

Location Quotient

Below Average

Columbia, SC has 0.81x the national average concentration of Optometrists jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.

90 people work as Optometrists in Columbia, SC.

Only 0.221 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Optometrists roles — this is a niche profession in the area.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Optometristss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Optometrists make in Columbia, SC?

The median annual salary for a Optometrists in Columbia, SC is $117,800. This typically ranges from $53,190 for entry-level positions to $156,070 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Columbia, SC is 16.8% lower than the national median of $141,560.

Is Columbia, SC a good place for Optometristss?

It depends on your priorities. While the average Optometrists salary in Columbia, SC is $117,800 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Columbia, SC. See distinct detailed breakdown below.

Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Optometrists?

The Cost of Living Index in Columbia, SC is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 90 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 0.221 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 Columbia, SC