Average Optometrists Salary in Pittsburgh, PA
Optometrists in Pittsburgh, PA earn an average annual salary of $114,780, which is below the national average of $141,560. This difference can be attributed to a variety of local economic factors, including the specific demand for eye care professionals and the overall compensation structure within the Pittsburgh metropolitan area's healthcare sector.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $114,780 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 2.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $158,510.
- Outlook: The Pittsburgh job market for optometrists appears stable, with a local workforce of 270 professionals. A Location Quotient of 0.9 suggests that the concentration of optometrists in Pittsburgh is slightly below the national average, indicating a steady but not overly saturated demand for these specialized healthcare providers.
Salary Overview
The average Optometrists in Pittsburgh, PA earns-18.9%below the national average.
$55.2
$2,207
$9,565
Optometrists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Pittsburgh optometrists isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume a general trend of salary growth over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Factors such as increasing demand for eye care services, advancements in optometric technology, and inflation likely contribute to a gradual upward trajectory in compensation for experienced professionals.
Optometrists Salary Distribution in Pittsburgh, PA
Salary progression for optometrists in Pittsburgh, as elsewhere, is significantly influenced by experience. Entry-level practitioners typically earn at the lower end of the pay scale, while those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or in leadership roles command higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify the career advancement opportunities available within the profession.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $58,920 | $28.3 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $86,085 | $41.4 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $113,580 | $54.6 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $143,475 | $69 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $158,510 | $76.2 |
Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$114,780
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$114,780
Adjusted for COL (100)
With an average annual salary of $114,780 and a Cost of Living Index at the national average of 100, optometrists in Pittsburgh experience a salary that aligns directly with the typical cost of living. This means that the purchasing power of their income is comparable to the national standard, offering a balanced lifestyle without significant financial strain related to local expenses.
Job Market Context
270
Total Jobs
0.244
Per 1K Jobs
0.9
Location Quotient
Pittsburgh, PA has 0.90x 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.
A Location Quotient of 0.9 indicates that optometrists are slightly less concentrated in Pittsburgh compared to the national average. This suggests a healthy job market where demand is present but not overwhelmingly competitive, potentially offering good opportunities for both new entrants and established professionals seeking employment.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Optometrists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Youngstown-Warren, OH Optometrists Salary | $114,620↓ 0% | 57 mi |
Comparing salaries near Pittsburgh, PA
Hiring Optometristss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Optometrists make in Pittsburgh, PA?
The median annual salary for a Optometrists in Pittsburgh, PA is $114,780. This typically ranges from $58,920 for entry-level positions to $158,510 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Pittsburgh, PA is 18.9% lower than the national median of $141,560.
Is Pittsburgh, PA a lucrative place for Optometrists?
No, not significantly more lucrative than the national average.Optometrists in Pittsburgh earn $114,780 annually, which is below the national average of $141,560. However, the cost of living is also at the national average, making the salary's purchasing power comparable.
Is Pittsburgh, PA a good place to live for Optometrists?
The Cost of Living Index in Pittsburgh, PA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Pittsburgh, PA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Youngstown-Warren, OH ($114,620) and others.
How does Pittsburgh's optometrist salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for optometrists in Pittsburgh, PA is $114,780, which is notably lower than the national average of $141,560.
What is the concentration of optometrists in Pittsburgh relative to the nation?
Pittsburgh has a Location Quotient of 0.9 for optometrists, indicating a slightly lower concentration of these professionals compared to the national average.
How does the cost of living in Pittsburgh affect an optometrist's salary?
Pittsburgh's Cost of Living Index is 100, which is the national average. This means the $114,780 salary has a purchasing power equivalent to the national median.
What does the local workforce size suggest about the job market for optometrists in Pittsburgh?
With a local workforce of 270 optometrists, the market is of a moderate size, suggesting stable demand without extreme competition.
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 Pittsburgh, PA area with a job density of 0.244 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 Pittsburgh, PA