Average Optometrists Salary in New Mexico
Yes, New Mexico is a highly lucrative market for Optometristss. With an average annual salary of $156,800, professionals here earn significantly more than the national norm.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $156,800 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 82.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $185,820.
- Outlook: The current demand for Optometristss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 140 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader New Mexico economy.
Salary Overview
The average Optometrists in New Mexico earns+10.8%above the national average.
$75.4
$3,015
$13,067
Optometrists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Optometrists salaries in New Mexico have experienced a rapid surge, growing by 82.8%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Optometrists Salary Distribution in New Mexico
The earning potential for Optometristss in New Mexico 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 $94,310, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $185,820.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $94,310 | $45.3 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $117,600 | $56.5 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $154,630 | $74.3 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $196,000 | $94.2 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $185,820 | $89.3 |
Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$156,800
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$175,000
Adjusted for COL (89.6)
This is a financial "Hidden Gem". Although the nominal salary is $156,800, the lower cost of living in New Mexico (10.4% below national average) boosts your purchasing power to an equivalent of $175,000. This allows for significant savings.
Job Market Context
140
Total Jobs
0.162
Per 1K Jobs
0.6
Location Quotient
New Mexico has 0.60x 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.
140 people work as Optometrists in New Mexico.
Only 0.162 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. |
|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque, NM Optometrists Salary | $168,290↑ 7% | 29 mi |
Comparing salaries near New Mexico
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Optometrists make in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for a Optometrists in New Mexico is $156,800. This typically ranges from $94,310 for entry-level positions to $185,820 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in New Mexico is 10.8% higher than the national median of $141,560.
Is New Mexico a good place for Optometristss?
Yes, New Mexico is financially attractive for Optometristss. The average salary of $156,800 exceeds the national average. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is New Mexico a good place to live for Optometrists?
With a Cost of Living Index of 89.6 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near New Mexico?
Some top paying nearby cities include Albuquerque, NM ($168,290) and others.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 140 employees in the New Mexico area with a job density of 0.162 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 New Mexico