Optometrist Salary in the United States
Based on 43K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$136,108
$65.44/hr
▲ 3.4% vs 2024Salary Range
$76K – $197K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
43K
workers nationwide
The median Optometrist salary in the United States is $136,108 per year, equating to approximately $65 per hour. This figure represents the midpoint of earnings, with half of optometrists earning more and half earning less. This profession plays a vital role in public health, ensuring clear vision and detecting eye diseases.
Several factors influence the Optometrist salary in the United States. Experience levels, geographic location, and the specific type of practice (e.g., private practice, retail, or hospital) all contribute to earning potential. The demand for eye care services in a particular region also plays a significant role in compensation.
Salary Distribution — Optometrist
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $75,984 |
| 25th percentile | $104,540 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $136,108 |
| 75th percentile | $163,332 |
| 90th percentile | $196,562 |
Optometrist Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Optometrist
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alaska | $170,310 | +25.1% | 60 |
| 2 | Maryland | $165,840 | +21.8% | 780 |
| 3 | North Carolina | $161,560 | +18.7% | 1K |
| 4 | Delaware | $161,270 | +18.5% | 190 |
| 5 | New York | $161,140 | +18.4% | 2K |
| 6 | New Jersey | $159,040 | +16.8% | 1K |
| 7 | Minnesota | $158,700 | +16.6% | 710 |
| 8 | Washington | $157,560 | +15.8% | 760 |
| 9 | Hawaii | $154,620 | +13.6% | 230 |
| 10 | Maine | $154,110 | +13.2% | 180 |
Optometrist Salary by Industry
How much Optometrists earn across industries nationwide — Management of Companies and Enterprises pays the most ($166,410 median). Ranked by median annual salary (2025 BLS OEWS data).
| # | Industry | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Management of Companies and Enterprises | $166,410 | +22.3% | 60 |
| 2 | Administrative and Support Services | $160,100 | +17.6% | — |
| 3 | Retail Trade | $159,250 | +17.0% | 6K |
| 4 | Health Care and Social Assistance | $134,370 | -1.3% | 36K |
| 5 | Educational Services | $124,280 | -8.7% | 110 |
| 6 | Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $115,210 | -15.4% | 550 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures.
Historical Salary Trend — Optometrist
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $121,162 |
| 2023 | $129,589 |
| 2024 | $131,624 |
| 2025 | $136,108 |
| 2026 (projected) | $140,745 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
Optometrist Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $104,540 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $136,108 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $163,332 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $196,562 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for an Optometrist in the US?
- The median salary for an Optometrist in the United States is $136,108 annually. This means that half of all optometrists earn more than this amount, while the other half earn less.
What is the salary range for Optometrists in the US?
- The salary for Optometrists in the US can range significantly, from $75,984 on the lower end to $196,562 on the higher end. This broad range reflects differences in experience, location, and practice type.
Which state pays Optometrists the most?
- Alaska is the top-paying state for Optometrists, with a median salary of $170,310 per year. This indicates a higher demand or compensation structure for eye care professionals in that region.
How many Optometrists are employed in the United States?
- There are approximately 42,810 Optometrists employed across the United States. This number reflects the total workforce in this specialized healthcare field.