Average Optometrists Salary in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC
The average salary for a Optometrists in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC is $139,890. This compensation is in line with national standards, reflecting a balanced and stable local job market.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $139,890 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 0.0% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $189,190.
- Outlook: The current demand for Optometristss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 40 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC economy.
Salary Overview
The average Optometrists in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC earns-1.2%below the national average.
$67.3
$2,690
$11,658
Optometrists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Historical trend data for Optometrists in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC is limited, but current market signals indicate a stable demand environment.
Optometrists Salary Distribution in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC
The earning potential for Optometristss in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC 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 $97,740, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $189,190.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $97,740 | $47 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $104,918 | $50.4 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $131,710 | $63.3 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $174,863 | $84.1 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $189,190 | $91 |
Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$139,890
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$139,890
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $139,890 to $139,890.
Job Market Context
40
Total Jobs
0.265
Per 1K Jobs
0.98
Location Quotient
Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC has 0.98x 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.
40 people work as Optometrists in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC.
Only 0.265 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Optometrists roles — this is a niche profession in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Optometrists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC Optometrists Salary | $145,440↑ 4% | 45 mi |
| Winston-Salem, NC Optometrists Salary | $153,000↑ 9% | 65 mi |
Comparing salaries near Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC
Hiring Optometristss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Optometrists make in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC?
The median annual salary for a Optometrists in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC is $139,890. This typically ranges from $97,740 for entry-level positions to $189,190 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC is 1.2% lower than the national median of $141,560.
Is Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC a good place for Optometristss?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Optometrists salary in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC is $139,890 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC a good place to live for Optometrists?
The Cost of Living Index in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC?
Some top paying nearby cities include Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC ($145,440) and Winston-Salem, NC.
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 Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC area with a job density of 0.265 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Optometrists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC