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Average Optometrists Salary in Rapid City, SD

The average salary for Optometristss in Rapid City, SD is $101,490. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Rapid City, SD may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power. Notably, Rapid City, SD is a key hub for this profession, with a job concentration 1.69x higher than average.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $101,490 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 2.0% ↘ over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $122,440.
  • Outlook: The current demand for Optometristss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 30 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Rapid City, SD economy.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$101,490

The average Optometrists in Rapid City, SD earns-28.3%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$48.8

Weekly

$1,952

Monthly

$8,458

Optometrists Salary Distribution in Rapid City, SD

The earning potential for Optometristss in Rapid City, SD 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 $81,830, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $122,440.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience.10% (Entry)$81,830$39.3
Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures.25% (Junior)$76,118$36.6
Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification.50% (Median)$92,860$44.6
SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases.75% (Senior)$126,863$61
Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider.90% (Expert)$122,440$58.9

Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$101,490

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$101,490

Adjusted for COL (100)

In Rapid City, SD, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $101,490 to $101,490.

Job Market Context

30

Total Jobs

0.459

Per 1K Jobs

1.69

Location Quotient

Major Hub

Rapid City, SD has 1.7x 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.

30 people work as Optometrists in Rapid City, SD.

Only 0.459 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Optometrists roles — this is a niche profession in the area.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Optometristss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Optometrists make in Rapid City, SD?

The median annual salary for a Optometrists in Rapid City, SD is $101,490. This typically ranges from $81,830 for entry-level positions to $122,440 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Rapid City, SD is 28.3% lower than the national median of $141,560.

Is Rapid City, SD a good place for Optometristss?

Yes, Rapid City, SD is highly recommended due to strong job demand. While salaries are competitive ($101,490), the area is particularly notable for its high job density for Optometristss. See distinct detailed breakdown below.

Is Rapid City, SD a good place to live for Optometrists?

The Cost of Living Index in Rapid City, SD is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 30 employees in the Rapid City, SD area with a job density of 0.459 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.

Semantic Salary Analysis for Optometrists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Rapid City, SD