Average Optometrists Salary in Raleigh-Cary, NC
Optometrists in Raleigh-Cary, NC, earn a substantial average annual salary of $173,890, significantly outpacing the national average of $141,560. This elevated compensation is likely driven by a combination of specialized demand and the region's economic vitality, making it a prime location for eye care professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $173,890 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 0.0% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $260,835.
- Outlook: The local job market for Optometrists in Raleigh-Cary, NC, appears robust, supported by a total workforce of 320 professionals. The Location Quotient of 1.64 indicates a concentration of these roles that is 64% higher than the national average, suggesting strong local demand and a favorable employment landscape for this profession.
Salary Overview
The average Optometrists in Raleigh-Cary, NC earns+22.8%above the national average.
$83.6
$3,344
$14,491
Optometrists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Optometrists in Raleigh-Cary, NC, have experienced consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends of increasing healthcare demand and the rising value placed on specialized medical services.
Optometrists Salary Distribution in Raleigh-Cary, NC
Salary progression for Optometrists in Raleigh-Cary, NC, typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, but with accumulated expertise and specialization, professionals can advance to senior roles commanding significantly higher earnings. The percentile gaps in salary distribution highlight clear opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $98,520 | $47.4 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $130,418 | $62.7 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $153,730 | $73.9 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $217,363 | $104.5 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $260,835 | $125.4 |
Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$173,890
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$173,890
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $173,890 in Raleigh-Cary, NC, is particularly attractive given the local Cost of Living Index is exactly at the national average of 100. This means that the higher nominal salary directly translates to strong purchasing power, allowing Optometrists to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the added financial strain often associated with high-paying cities.
Job Market Context
320
Total Jobs
0.445
Per 1K Jobs
1.64
Location Quotient
Raleigh-Cary, NC has 1.6x the national concentration of Optometrists jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
With a Location Quotient of 1.64, Raleigh-Cary, NC, demonstrates a notable concentration of Optometrists relative to the national average. This suggests a competitive yet abundant market, where demand for skilled professionals is higher than the national benchmark, potentially leading to more job opportunities and favorable negotiation leverage for experienced candidates.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Optometrists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC Optometrists Salary | $169,050↓ 3% | 18 mi |
| Fayetteville, NC Optometrists Salary | $150,950↓ 13% | 55 mi |
Comparing salaries near Raleigh-Cary, NC
Hiring Optometristss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Optometrists make in Raleigh-Cary, NC?
The median annual salary for a Optometrists in Raleigh-Cary, NC is $173,890. This typically ranges from $98,520 for entry-level positions to $260,835 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Raleigh-Cary, NC is 22.8% higher than the national median of $141,560.
Is Raleigh-Cary, NC a lucrative place for Optometrists?
Yes, Raleigh-Cary, NC is a highly lucrative location for Optometrists.The average salary of $173,890 significantly exceeds the national average, and the Cost of Living Index being at the national average further enhances the financial attractiveness of this location.
Is Raleigh-Cary, NC a good place to live for Optometrists?
The Cost of Living Index in Raleigh-Cary, NC is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Raleigh-Cary, NC?
Some top paying nearby cities include Durham-Chapel Hill, NC ($169,050) and Fayetteville, NC.
How does the number of Optometrists in Raleigh-Cary compare to the national average?
Raleigh-Cary, NC has a total workforce of 320 Optometrists, and its Location Quotient of 1.64 indicates a concentration that is 64% higher than the national average, suggesting a greater prevalence of this profession locally.
What is the job availability like for Optometrists in Raleigh-Cary, NC?
The job market appears favorable, with 0.445 jobs per 1,000 workers. Combined with a Location Quotient above 1.0, this points to a healthy demand for Optometrists in the area.
How does the cost of living in Raleigh-Cary, NC affect an Optometrist's salary?
The Cost of Living Index in Raleigh-Cary, NC, is 100, which is the national average. This means the high average salary of $173,890 offers excellent purchasing power for Optometrists residing in this area.
What factors contribute to the higher Optometrist salaries in Raleigh-Cary, NC?
The higher salaries are likely influenced by the strong local demand, indicated by the Location Quotient, and the overall economic strength of the Raleigh-Cary region, which supports competitive compensation for specialized healthcare professionals.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 320 employees in the Raleigh-Cary, NC area with a job density of 0.445 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
Explore Optometrists Salaries by State
Top Jobs in Raleigh-Cary, NC
- All Occupations Salary in Raleigh-Cary, NC
- Office and Administrative Support Occupations Salary in Raleigh-Cary, NC
- Sales and Related Occupations Salary in Raleigh-Cary, NC
- Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Raleigh-Cary, NC
- Business and Financial Operations Occupations Salary in Raleigh-Cary, NC
- Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary in Raleigh-Cary, NC
- Management Occupations Salary in Raleigh-Cary, NC
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations Salary in Raleigh-Cary, NC
- Computer and Mathematical Occupations Salary in Raleigh-Cary, NC
- Educational Instruction and Library Occupations Salary in Raleigh-Cary, NC
- Browse All Jobs in Raleigh-Cary, NC →
Semantic Salary Analysis for Optometrists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Raleigh-Cary, NC