Average Optometrists Salary in Idaho
Optometrists in Idaho earn an average annual salary of $88,350, which is notably below the national average of $141,560. This disparity can be attributed to a combination of factors including the state's specific economic landscape, demand for eye care services, and the overall cost of living within Idaho's communities.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $88,350 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 8.8% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $172,300.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 270 Optometrists and a Location Quotient of 1.17, Idaho demonstrates a slightly higher concentration of these professionals than the national average. This suggests a stable, albeit not booming, demand for eye care services within the state, indicating a consistent job market for qualified optometrists.
Salary Overview
The average Optometrists in Idaho earns-37.6%below the national average.
$42.5
$1,699
$7,363
Optometrists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Idaho Optometrist salaries over the last four years is not provided, it is generally assumed that compensation for this in-demand healthcare profession has seen steady growth. Factors such as inflation, increasing healthcare needs, and advancements in optometric technology likely contribute to an upward trend in average salaries.
Optometrists Salary Distribution in Idaho
Salary progression for Optometrists in Idaho typically scales significantly with experience. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and extensive experience can command salaries in the higher percentiles. The gap between entry-level and senior roles signifies a clear career ladder and opportunities for substantial earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $37,930 | $18.2 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $66,263 | $31.9 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $66,880 | $32.2 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $110,438 | $53.1 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $172,300 | $82.8 |
Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$88,350
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$83,270
Adjusted for COL (106.1)
An average annual salary of $88,350 in Idaho, when considered against a Cost of Living Index of 106.1 (meaning it's 6.1% higher than the national average), suggests that the purchasing power of an Optometrist's salary is slightly diminished compared to national averages. While the nominal salary appears lower, the actual financial well-being will depend on specific regional costs within Idaho.
Job Market Context
270
Total Jobs
0.318
Per 1K Jobs
1.17
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.17, Idaho has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Optometrists roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.17 indicates that Optometrists are 17% more concentrated in Idaho than the national average. This suggests a healthy, competitive market where the supply of optometrists is slightly more abundant relative to the general workforce, potentially influencing salary negotiations and job availability.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Optometrists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Boise City, ID Optometrists Salary | $106,150↑ 20% | 96 mi |
Comparing salaries near Idaho
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Optometrists make in Idaho?
The median annual salary for a Optometrists in Idaho is $88,350. This typically ranges from $37,930 for entry-level positions to $172,300 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Idaho is 37.6% lower than the national median of $141,560.
Is Idaho a lucrative place for Optometrists?
No, not compared to the national average.While Idaho offers a stable job market for Optometrists, the average salary of $88,350 is significantly lower than the national average of $141,560, indicating less lucrative earning potential in terms of nominal income.
Is Idaho a good place to live for Optometrists?
The Cost of Living Index in Idaho is 106.1. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Idaho?
Some top paying nearby cities include Boise City, ID ($106,150) and others.
How does Idaho's cost of living affect Optometrist salaries?
Idaho's Cost of Living Index is 106.1, slightly above the national average. This means that while the average salary is $88,350, the purchasing power may be less than in areas with a lower cost of living, despite the nominal salary figure.
What is the concentration of Optometrists in Idaho?
Idaho has a Location Quotient of 1.17 for Optometrists, indicating a slightly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average. This suggests a competitive market.
How many Optometrists work in Idaho?
There are approximately 270 Optometrists employed within Idaho, contributing to the state's healthcare infrastructure.
What are the job prospects for Optometrists in Idaho?
With a Location Quotient slightly above average, the job market for Optometrists in Idaho appears stable, suggesting consistent demand for eye care services and steady employment opportunities.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 270 employees in the Idaho area with a job density of 0.318 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 Idaho