Average Optometrists Salary in U.S.
Optometrists in U.S. earn an average annual salary of $141,560, precisely matching the national average. This alignment suggests that the economic factors influencing compensation for eye care professionals in this region are consistent with broader national trends. The stability in pay, even without a significant premium, indicates a well-established market for optometric services.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $141,560 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 18.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $204,140.
- Outlook: With a substantial local workforce of 41,150, the U.S. presents a significant market for optometrists. While the Location Quotient is not provided, the sheer size of the workforce implies a consistent demand for optometric services, supporting a robust job market for skilled professionals in this field.
Salary Overview
The average Optometrists in U.S. earns-0.0%below the national average.
$68.1
$2,722
$11,797
Optometrists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for U.S. optometrists is not detailed here, it is reasonable to assume a trend of steady salary growth over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic factors such as increased demand for eye care, advancements in technology, and inflation typically contribute to incremental salary increases for healthcare professionals.
Optometrists Salary Distribution in U.S.
The salary trajectory for optometrists in U.S. typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions might start at a lower percentile, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills or in leadership roles can command salaries in the higher percentiles. The gap between entry-level and senior optometrist salaries signifies clear career progression opportunities within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $71,320 | $34.3 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $106,170 | $51 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $135,130 | $65 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $176,950 | $85.1 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $204,140 | $98.1 |
Detailed Optometrists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$141,560
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$141,560
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $141,560 in U.S. is perfectly balanced by a Cost of Living Index of 100, which represents the national average. This means that the purchasing power of an optometrist's salary in U.S. is equivalent to the national average, offering no significant advantage or disadvantage in terms of affordability.
Job Market Context
41,150
Total Jobs
N/A
Per 1K Jobs
N/A
Location Quotient
The absence of a specific Location Quotient (LQ) for optometrists in U.S. makes it challenging to definitively assess market concentration. However, a large total workforce suggests that the market is likely well-established and competitive, with a steady supply of professionals meeting the demand for optometric services.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Optometrists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Tulsa, OK Optometrists Salary | $118,710↓ 16% | 67 mi |
| Wichita, KS Optometrists Salary | $137,000↓ 3% | 99 mi |
Comparing salaries near U.S.
Hiring Optometristss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Optometrists make in U.S.?
The median annual salary for a Optometrists in U.S. is $141,560. This typically ranges from $71,320 for entry-level positions to $204,140 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in U.S. is 0.0% lower than the national median of $141,560.
Is U.S. a lucrative place for Optometrists?
Yes, U.S. offers a lucrative environment for Optometrists.Optometrists in U.S. earn an average of $141,560, which aligns with the national average. Coupled with a cost of living index of 100, this indicates strong earning potential and stable economic conditions for the profession.
Is U.S. a good place to live for Optometrists?
The Cost of Living Index in U.S. is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near U.S.?
Some top paying nearby cities include Tulsa, OK ($118,710) and Wichita, KS.
What is the average salary for an Optometrist in U.S.?
The average annual salary for an Optometrist in U.S. is $141,560.
How does the U.S. cost of living compare to the national average?
The cost of living in U.S. is exactly at the national average, with an index of 100.
What is the total workforce of Optometrists in U.S.?
There are 41,150 optometrists employed in U.S.
Are there significant salary differences based on experience for Optometrists in U.S.?
Yes, salary typically increases with experience, with senior optometrists earning significantly more than entry-level practitioners, reflecting career advancement.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 41,150 employees in the U.S. area with a job density of 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 U.S.