Optometrist Salary in Delaware
Based on 190+ workers in Delaware
Median Annual Salary (DE)
$161,270
$77.53/hr
vs National Average
$136,108
+18.5% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$78K – $188K
190 employed in Delaware
Optometrist salary in Delaware averages $161,270 annually, positioning the state well above national benchmarks. With approximately 190 optometrists currently employed in Delaware, this compensation level reflects strong demand for eye care services. Salaries in the state range from $77,980 to $188,490, indicating considerable variation based on individual circumstances and career progression.
Several factors influence optometrist compensation in Delaware, including years of experience, practice setting, and specialization areas. Those working in private practices or specialized fields typically earn toward the higher end of the range, while newer professionals may start closer to the minimum. Additionally, geographic location within the state, patient demographics, and the ability to attract and retain clients all play significant roles in determining individual earnings potential.
Salary Distribution — Optometrist in Delaware
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $77,980 |
| 25th percentile | $107,880 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $161,270 |
| 75th percentile | $175,750 |
| 90th percentile | $188,490 |
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 Delaware 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 Delaware vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Delaware) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $118,860 |
| 2023 | $141,020 |
| 2024 | $137,910 |
| 2025 | $161,270 |
| 2026 (projected) | $170,946 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Delaware Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $118,860 | $121,162 |
| 2023 | $141,020 | $129,589 |
| 2024 | $137,910 | $131,624 |
| 2025 | $161,270 | $136,108 |
| 2026 (projected) | $170,946 | $144,274 |
Optometrist Salary by Experience Level in Delaware
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $107,880 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $161,270 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $175,750 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $188,490 |
Optometrist Salary in Other States
Related Optometrist Salaries in Delaware
How other high-demand occupations in Delaware compare to Optometrist ($161,270 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Optometrist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in DE | $324,080 | +101.0% | $155.81/hr |
| Psychiatrist in DE | $279,410 | +73.3% | $134.33/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in DE | $228,000 | +41.4% | $109.62/hr |
| Pediatrician in DE | $219,190 | +35.9% | $105.38/hr |
| Podiatrist in DE | $170,560 | +5.8% | $82.00/hr |
| Pharmacist in DE | $152,880 | -5.2% | $73.50/hr |
| Physician Assistant in DE | $139,350 | -13.6% | $67.00/hr |
| Medical and Health Services Manager in DE | $134,820 | -16.4% | $64.82/hr |
| Nurse Practitioner in DE | $131,040 | -18.7% | $63.00/hr |
| Nurse Midwife in DE | $127,510 | -20.9% | $61.30/hr |
| Speech-Language Pathologist in DE | $102,760 | -36.3% | $49.40/hr |
| Occupational Therapist in DE | $102,130 | -36.7% | $49.10/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do optometrists make in Delaware?
- Optometrists in Delaware earn a median salary of $161,270 per year, or $78 per hour. This is 18.5% higher than the national average, making Delaware a competitive state for optometry careers.
What is the salary range for optometrists in Delaware?
- Optometrist salaries in Delaware range from a low of $77,980 to a high of $188,490 per year. This wide range reflects differences in experience, practice setting, and individual business performance.
Is optometry a well-paying job in Delaware?
- Yes, optometry is well-compensated in Delaware with a median salary of $161,270 annually, which exceeds the national average by 18.5%. Currently, there are 190 optometrists employed in the state.
What do optometrists earn per hour in Delaware?
- The median hourly rate for optometrists in Delaware is $78 per hour, based on the median annual salary of $161,270. This hourly rate positions Delaware optometrists above the national average for their profession.