Average Optometrists Salary in Kansas
Optometrists in Kansas earn an impressive average annual salary of $142,400, slightly surpassing the national average of $141,560. This favorable compensation reflects the state's specific demand for eye care professionals and potentially the unique operational costs and market dynamics within Kansas.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $142,400 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 23.6% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $212,900.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 460 Optometrists, Kansas presents a stable, albeit specialized, job market. The Location Quotient of 1.19 indicates a slightly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average, suggesting a steady demand that aligns with or slightly exceeds national trends for this vital healthcare role.
Salary Overview
The average Optometrists in Kansas earns+0.6%above the national average.
$68.5
$2,738
$11,867
Optometrists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that Optometrist salaries in Kansas have experienced consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing healthcare needs, technological advancements in optometry, and inflation likely contribute to a positive upward trajectory in earning potential for these professionals.
Optometrists Salary Distribution in Kansas
Career progression for Optometrists in Kansas is typically marked by increasing earning potential. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile, but with experience, specialization, and potentially practice ownership, salaries can ascend significantly. The salary distribution, though not detailed here, generally shows a widening gap between junior and senior practitioners, signifying substantial opportunities for advancement.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $94,990 | $45.7 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $106,800 | $51.3 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $128,510 | $61.8 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $178,000 | $85.6 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $212,900 | $102.4 |
Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$142,400
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$162,372
Adjusted for COL (87.7)
The average annual salary of $142,400 in Kansas offers considerable purchasing power, especially when contrasted with the state's Cost of Living Index of 87.7. This index is notably below the national average of 100, meaning that the nominal salary translates into a higher real income, allowing Optometrists to enjoy a better standard of living compared to many other states.
Job Market Context
460
Total Jobs
0.323
Per 1K Jobs
1.19
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.19, Kansas has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Optometrists roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.19 signifies that Optometrists are slightly more concentrated in Kansas than the national average. This suggests a healthy, established market for these professionals, where demand is robust enough to support a slightly higher presence of practitioners. It indicates a competitive yet accessible environment for both new entrants and established professionals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Optometrists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Topeka, KS Optometrists Salary | $130,290↓ 9% | 66 mi |
| Wichita, KS Optometrists Salary | $137,000↓ 4% | 67 mi |
Comparing salaries near Kansas
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Optometrists make in Kansas?
The median annual salary for a Optometrists in Kansas is $142,400. This typically ranges from $94,990 for entry-level positions to $212,900 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Kansas is 0.6% higher than the national median of $141,560.
Is Kansas a lucrative place for Optometrists?
Yes, Kansas offers a lucrative environment for Optometrists.The average salary of $142,400 exceeds the national average, and the cost of living is below the national average, enhancing real income.
Is Kansas a good place to live for Optometrists?
With a Cost of Living Index of 87.7 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Kansas?
Some top paying nearby cities include Topeka, KS ($130,290) and Wichita, KS.
How does the Kansas Optometrist salary compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Kansas earn an average of $142,400 annually, which is slightly higher than the national average of $141,560.
What is the concentration of Optometrists in Kansas?
Kansas has a Location Quotient of 1.19 for Optometrists, indicating a slightly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average.
How does the cost of living in Kansas affect Optometrist salaries?
With a Cost of Living Index of 87.7, Kansas is more affordable than the national average. This means the $142,400 salary provides greater purchasing power for Optometrists residing in the state.
What is the total number of Optometrists in Kansas?
There are approximately 460 Optometrists employed within Kansas, representing a stable segment of the state's healthcare workforce.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 460 employees in the Kansas area with a job density of 0.323 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 Kansas