Optometrist Salary in California
Based on 7K+ workers in California
Median Annual Salary (CA)
$136,300
$65.53/hr
vs National Average
$136,108
+0.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$100K – $214K
7K employed in California
Optometrist salary in California averages $136,300 per year, with the state currently employing approximately 6,890 optometrists. This median figure aligns with the national average, reflecting California's position as a competitive market for eye care professionals. Salaries in the state range from $99,890 at the lower end to $213,710 for experienced practitioners.
Several factors influence optometrist compensation throughout California, including years of experience, practice setting, and geographic location within the state. Optometrists working in high-cost urban areas or established private practices typically earn more than those in rural regions or employed settings. Additional variables such as specialization, patient volume, and business ownership status also significantly impact individual earning potential in this profession.
Salary Distribution — Optometrist in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $99,890 |
| 25th percentile | $122,960 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $136,300 |
| 75th percentile | $166,300 |
| 90th percentile | $213,710 |
Top-Paying Industries for Optometrist (U.S.)
Which industries pay Optometrists the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Optometrists in California tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $166,410 | 60 |
| Administrative and Support Services | $160,100 | — |
| Retail Trade | $159,250 | 6K |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $134,370 | 36K |
| Educational Services | $124,280 | 110 |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Optometrist in California vs National
| Year | Median Salary (California) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $125,590 |
| 2023 | $134,020 |
| 2024 | $137,070 |
| 2025 | $136,300 |
| 2026 (projected) | $136,300 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | California Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $125,590 | $121,162 |
| 2023 | $134,020 | $129,589 |
| 2024 | $137,070 | $131,624 |
| 2025 | $136,300 | $136,108 |
| 2026 (projected) | $136,300 | $136,108 |
Optometrist Salary by Experience Level in California
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $122,960 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $136,300 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $166,300 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $213,710 |
Optometrist Salary in Other States
Related Optometrist Salaries in California
How other high-demand occupations in California compare to Optometrist ($136,300 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Optometrist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychiatrist in CA | $353,500 | +159.4% | $169.95/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in CA | $313,890 | +130.3% | $150.91/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in CA | $301,240 | +121.0% | $144.83/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in CA | $292,410 | +114.5% | $140.58/hr |
| Radiologist in CA | $270,560 | +98.5% | $130.08/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in CA | $252,010 | +84.9% | $121.16/hr |
| Pediatrician in CA | $214,140 | +57.1% | $102.95/hr |
| Nurse Midwife in CA | $203,840 | +49.6% | $98.00/hr |
| Podiatrist in CA | $201,300 | +47.7% | $96.78/hr |
| Cardiologist in CA | $185,610 | +36.2% | $89.24/hr |
| Nurse Practitioner in CA | $168,520 | +23.6% | $81.02/hr |
| Dentist in CA | $165,950 | +21.8% | $79.78/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do optometrists make in California?
- Optometrists in California earn a median salary of $136,300 per year, or approximately $66 per hour. This is slightly above the national average, representing a +0.1% difference compared to optometrists across the United States.
What is the salary range for optometrists in California?
- The salary range for optometrists in California spans from $99,890 at the lower end to $213,710 at the higher end. This wide range reflects differences in experience, location within the state, and individual practice success.
How many optometrists are employed in California?
- There are currently 6,890 optometrists employed in California, making it a significant healthcare profession in the state.
Is optometry a well-paying job in California compared to the US?
- Yes, California's median optometrist salary of $136,300 per year is competitive, exceeding the national average by 0.1%. This makes California an attractive location for optometrists seeking above-average compensation.