Average Optometrists Salary in Rhode Island
Optometrists in Rhode Island earn an impressive average annual salary of $144,670, surpassing the national average of $141,560. This elevated compensation is likely influenced by the state's specific healthcare demands and the specialized nature of optometric care within its unique demographic landscape.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $144,670 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 31.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $207,430.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 220 Optometrists and a Location Quotient of 1.67, Rhode Island demonstrates a robust demand for these professionals. The concentration significantly above the national average suggests a thriving job market where Optometrists are highly valued and sought after.
Salary Overview
The average Optometrists in Rhode Island earns+2.2%above the national average.
$69.6
$2,782
$12,056
Optometrists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that the field of optometry in Rhode Island has experienced steady salary growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing demand for eye care services and advancements in diagnostic technology likely contribute to this upward trajectory.
Optometrists Salary Distribution in Rhode Island
Salary progression for Optometrists in Rhode Island typically scales significantly with experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, but senior practitioners with extensive experience and specialized skills can command salaries well above the average. The widening gap between entry-level and senior-level pay reflects clear career advancement opportunities and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $64,710 | $31.1 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $108,503 | $52.2 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $144,360 | $69.4 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $180,838 | $86.9 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $207,430 | $99.7 |
Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$144,670
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$129,170
Adjusted for COL (112)
An average salary of $144,670 in Rhode Island offers a strong financial standing, especially when considering the local Cost of Living Index of 112. While slightly above the national average, this salary provides a comfortable lifestyle, allowing for a good balance between earnings and expenses within the state.
Job Market Context
220
Total Jobs
0.453
Per 1K Jobs
1.67
Location Quotient
Rhode Island 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.
Rhode Island's Location Quotient of 1.67 indicates a market where Optometrists are 67% more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a competitive yet abundant job market, where employers may actively seek specialized talent, and professionals have a good selection of opportunities.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Optometrists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Providence-Warwick, RI-MA Optometrists Salary | $143,810↓ 1% | 11 mi |
| Norwich-New London-Willimantic, CT Optometrists Salary | $151,280↑ 5% | 31 mi |
| Worcester, MA Optometrists Salary | $152,650↑ 6% | 43 mi |
| Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Optometrists Salary | $155,960↑ 8% | 49 mi |
Comparing salaries near Rhode Island
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Optometrists make in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for a Optometrists in Rhode Island is $144,670. This typically ranges from $64,710 for entry-level positions to $207,430 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Rhode Island is 2.2% higher than the national median of $141,560.
Is Rhode Island a lucrative place for Optometrists?
Yes, Rhode Island offers a lucrative environment for Optometrists.The average salary of $144,670 significantly exceeds the national average, and the high concentration of jobs (LQ of 1.67) indicates strong demand and earning potential within the state.
Is Rhode Island a good place to live for Optometrists?
The Cost of Living Index in Rhode Island is 112. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Rhode Island?
Some top paying nearby cities include Providence-Warwick, RI-MA ($143,810) and Norwich-New London-Willimantic, CT.
How does Rhode Island's Optometrist salary compare to the national average?
Optometrists in Rhode Island earn an average of $144,670 annually, which is higher than the national average of $141,560.
What is the job market like for Optometrists in Rhode Island?
The job market is robust, with a Location Quotient of 1.67, indicating a higher concentration of Optometrists than the national average, suggesting strong demand.
How does the cost of living in Rhode Island affect an Optometrist's salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 112, Rhode Island is slightly more expensive than the national average. However, the higher average salary for Optometrists helps to offset these costs, providing good purchasing power.
What does the Location Quotient of 1.67 mean for Optometrists in Rhode Island?
A Location Quotient of 1.67 signifies that Optometrists are more concentrated in Rhode Island compared to the rest of the U.S., implying a specialized and potentially competitive job market with ample opportunities.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 220 employees in the Rhode Island area with a job density of 0.453 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 Rhode Island