Average Optometrists Salary in Maryland
Optometrists in Maryland earn an impressive average annual salary of $142,060, slightly surpassing the national average of $141,560. This marginal difference suggests that the demand for specialized eye care professionals in Maryland, potentially driven by its demographic profile and healthcare infrastructure, supports compensation levels at or above the national benchmark.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $142,060 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 34.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $196,360.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 870 Optometrists and a Location Quotient of 1.17, Maryland exhibits a slightly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average. This indicates a stable and potentially growing demand for eye care services within the state, suggesting a robust job market for qualified Optometrists.
Salary Overview
The average Optometrists in Maryland earns+0.4%above the national average.
$68.3
$2,732
$11,838
Optometrists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it's reasonable to assume that Optometrist salaries in Maryland have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing healthcare needs, advancements in optometric technology, and inflation likely contribute to a positive salary trajectory for the profession.
Optometrists Salary Distribution in Maryland
Career progression for Optometrists in Maryland typically involves a significant salary increase 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, reflecting their expertise and value to practices and healthcare systems.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $51,130 | $24.6 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $106,545 | $51.2 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $157,830 | $75.9 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $177,575 | $85.4 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $196,360 | $94.4 |
Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$142,060
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$113,557
Adjusted for COL (125.1)
While the average annual salary of $142,060 appears favorable, Maryland's Cost of Living Index of 125.1 means that expenses are approximately 25% higher than the national average. Therefore, the purchasing power of an Optometrist's salary in Maryland is somewhat diminished compared to states with a lower cost of living, requiring careful financial planning.
Job Market Context
870
Total Jobs
0.318
Per 1K Jobs
1.17
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.17, Maryland has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Optometrists roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.17 signifies that Optometrists are 17% more concentrated in Maryland than the national average. This suggests a healthy, albeit slightly more competitive, job market where employers may have a slightly larger pool of candidates, but demand remains strong enough to support competitive compensation.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Optometrists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV Optometrists Salary | $167,900↑ 18% | 17 mi |
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD Optometrists Salary | $135,010↓ 5% | 19 mi |
| York-Hanover, PA Optometrists Salary | $137,300↓ 3% | 62 mi |
Comparing salaries near Maryland
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Optometrists make in Maryland?
The median annual salary for a Optometrists in Maryland is $142,060. This typically ranges from $51,130 for entry-level positions to $196,360 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Maryland is 0.4% higher than the national median of $141,560.
Is Maryland a lucrative place for Optometrists?
Yes, Maryland offers a lucrative environment for Optometrists.The average salary slightly exceeds the national average, and the state's higher concentration of optometrists indicates strong demand for their services.
Is Maryland a good place to live for Optometrists?
The Cost of Living Index in Maryland is 125.1. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Maryland?
Some top paying nearby cities include Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($167,900) and Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD.
How does the cost of living affect an Optometrist's salary in Maryland?
Maryland's cost of living is 25% higher than the national average, meaning the $142,060 salary has less purchasing power than it would in a lower-cost state.
Is the job market for Optometrists strong in Maryland?
Yes, the Location Quotient of 1.17 suggests a slightly higher concentration of Optometrists than the national average, indicating a robust demand for their services.
What is the average salary for an Optometrist in Maryland?
The average annual salary for an Optometrist in Maryland is $142,060.
How does Maryland's Optometrist salary compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Maryland earn slightly more than the national average, with an average salary of $142,060 compared to the national average of $141,560.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 870 employees in the Maryland 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 Maryland