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Average Optometrists Salary in South Dakota

Optometrists in South Dakota can expect an average annual salary of $119,420. This figure is notably below the national average of $141,560, suggesting that regional economic factors and demand dynamics play a significant role in compensation within the state. While lower than the national benchmark, this salary must be considered within the context of South Dakota's specific economic landscape.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $119,420 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 22.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $170,590.
  • Outlook: With a total local workforce of 200 Optometrists, South Dakota presents a concentrated but relatively small professional pool. The Location Quotient of 1.59 indicates a higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average, suggesting a stable or potentially growing demand for their services within the state's healthcare sector.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$119,420

The average Optometrists in South Dakota earns-15.6%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$57.4

Weekly

$2,297

Monthly

$9,952

Optometrists Salary Distribution in South Dakota

Salary progression for Optometrists in South Dakota, as elsewhere, is typically tied to experience. Entry-level positions will command lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills can expect to earn significantly more. The gap between the lower and upper salary percentiles reflects this career trajectory and the value placed on expertise and years of practice.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience.10% (Entry)$83,740$40.3
Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures.25% (Junior)$89,565$43.1
Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification.50% (Median)$118,980$57.2
SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases.75% (Senior)$149,275$71.8
Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider.90% (Expert)$170,590$82

Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$119,420

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$130,087

Adjusted for COL (91.8)

The average annual salary of $119,420 in South Dakota offers a strong purchasing power, especially when contrasted with the state's Cost of Living Index of 91.8, which is below the national average of 100. This means that the nominal salary earned by Optometrists in South Dakota can translate into a higher real income and a better quality of life compared to areas with a higher cost of living.

Job Market Context

200

Total Jobs

0.433

Per 1K Jobs

1.59

Location Quotient

Major Hub

South Dakota 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.

A Location Quotient of 1.59 for Optometrists in South Dakota signifies a market where these professionals are more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a robust demand relative to the general workforce, potentially indicating fewer job openings but a higher likelihood of finding employment for qualified individuals already within the state, or those looking to relocate to an area with a specific need for their skills.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Optometristss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Optometrists make in South Dakota?

The median annual salary for a Optometrists in South Dakota is $119,420. This typically ranges from $83,740 for entry-level positions to $170,590 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in South Dakota is 15.6% lower than the national median of $141,560.

Is South Dakota a lucrative place for Optometrists?

Yes, considering the cost of living.While the average salary is below the national average, South Dakota's lower cost of living index means your earnings can go further. The strong location quotient also suggests a healthy demand for the profession.

Is South Dakota a good place to live for Optometrists?

With a Cost of Living Index of 91.8 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.

How does South Dakota's Optometrist salary compare nationally?

The average annual salary for Optometrists in South Dakota is $119,420, which is below the national average of $141,560.

What is the concentration of Optometrists in South Dakota?

South Dakota has a Location Quotient of 1.59 for Optometrists, indicating a higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average.

How does the cost of living affect Optometrist salaries in South Dakota?

With a Cost of Living Index of 91.8, South Dakota is more affordable than the national average, making the $119,420 salary potentially more valuable in terms of purchasing power.

What does the total workforce size suggest about the Optometrist job market in South Dakota?

A total local workforce of 200 Optometrists suggests a relatively small but established professional community, with a concentration that implies steady demand.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 200 employees in the South Dakota area with a job density of 0.433 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 South Dakota