Average Optometrists Salary in Nebraska
Optometrists in Nebraska earn an average annual salary of $136,810, slightly below the national average of $141,560. This localized pay structure is influenced by a combination of factors including the state's specific economic conditions, demand for eye care services, and the overall cost of living within Nebraska.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $136,810 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 23.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $191,760.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 370 Optometrists, Nebraska presents a focused employment landscape. The Location Quotient of 1.34 indicates a higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average, suggesting a stable and potentially growing demand for their specialized skills within the state.
Salary Overview
The average Optometrists in Nebraska earns-3.4%below the national average.
$65.8
$2,631
$11,401
Optometrists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that Optometrist salaries in Nebraska have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing demand for eye care, advancements in optometric technology, and inflation likely contribute to this upward salary trajectory.
Optometrists Salary Distribution in Nebraska
The career path for Optometrists in Nebraska offers significant earning potential as experience is gained. Entry-level positions typically start at the lower end of the salary spectrum, while senior Optometrists with extensive experience and specialized skills can command salaries well above the average, with percentile gaps clearly signifying substantial career progression and increased compensation.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $64,550 | $31 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $102,608 | $49.3 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $116,850 | $56.2 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $171,013 | $82.2 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $191,760 | $92.2 |
Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$136,810
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$150,672
Adjusted for COL (90.8)
Nebraska's nominal average salary of $136,810 offers considerable purchasing power, especially when viewed against the state's Cost of Living Index of 90.8. This index is below the national average of 100, meaning that the average Optometrist salary in Nebraska likely translates to a higher real income and improved quality of life compared to many other states.
Job Market Context
370
Total Jobs
0.364
Per 1K Jobs
1.34
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.34, Nebraska has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Optometrists roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.34 for Optometrists in Nebraska signifies a notable concentration of these professionals relative to the national distribution. This suggests that the job market may be more specialized and potentially less saturated than in areas with a lower LQ, offering a competitive advantage for skilled practitioners seeking opportunities.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Optometrists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln, NE Optometrists Salary | $141,490↑ 3% | 86 mi |
Comparing salaries near Nebraska
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Optometrists make in Nebraska?
The median annual salary for a Optometrists in Nebraska is $136,810. This typically ranges from $64,550 for entry-level positions to $191,760 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Nebraska is 3.4% lower than the national median of $141,560.
Is Nebraska a lucrative place for Optometrists?
Yes, Nebraska offers a lucrative environment for Optometrists.The average salary of $136,810, combined with a cost of living below the national average, provides strong earning potential and purchasing power for eye care professionals in the state.
Is Nebraska a good place to live for Optometrists?
With a Cost of Living Index of 90.8 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Nebraska?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lincoln, NE ($141,490) and others.
How does Nebraska's cost of living affect Optometrist salaries?
Nebraska's Cost of Living Index of 90.8, which is below the national average, means that the average Optometrist salary of $136,810 likely provides a higher real income and greater purchasing power for residents compared to areas with a higher cost of living.
Is the job market for Optometrists strong in Nebraska?
With a Location Quotient of 1.34, Nebraska shows a higher concentration of Optometrists than the national average, indicating a robust and potentially growing demand for their services within the state's healthcare sector.
What is the average salary for an Optometrist in Nebraska?
The average annual salary for an Optometrist in Nebraska is $136,810, which is slightly lower than the national average but still represents a substantial income.
How does Nebraska compare to the national average for Optometrist salaries?
Optometrists in Nebraska earn an average of $136,810 annually, which is approximately $4,750 less than 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 370 employees in the Nebraska area with a job density of 0.364 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 Nebraska