Optometrist Salary in Minnesota
Based on 710+ workers in Minnesota
Median Annual Salary (MN)
$158,700
$76.30/hr
vs National Average
$136,108
+16.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$97K – $207K
710 employed in Minnesota
Optometrist salary in Minnesota averages $158,700 per year, positioning the state well above the national average at 17% higher. With approximately 710 optometrists currently employed across Minnesota, the field offers competitive compensation for eye care professionals. Salaries in the state range from $96,670 to $206,960 annually, reflecting variations based on experience and practice setting.
Several factors influence optometrist salary in Minnesota, including years of experience, type of employer, and geographic location within the state. Optometrists working in private practices, hospitals, or corporate settings may see different compensation levels. Additionally, specializations in areas like contact lens fitting or low vision care, combined with professional reputation and patient demand, can impact earning potential and career progression.
Salary Distribution — Optometrist in Minnesota
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $96,670 |
| 25th percentile | $125,860 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $158,700 |
| 75th percentile | $174,370 |
| 90th percentile | $206,960 |
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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Minnesota) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $150,110 |
| 2023 | $137,210 |
| 2024 | $150,020 |
| 2025 | $158,700 |
| 2026 (projected) | $167,882 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Minnesota Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $150,110 | $121,162 |
| 2023 | $137,210 | $129,589 |
| 2024 | $150,020 | $131,624 |
| 2025 | $158,700 | $136,108 |
| 2026 (projected) | $167,882 | $143,983 |
Optometrist Salary by Experience Level in Minnesota
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $125,860 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $158,700 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $174,370 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $206,960 |
Optometrist Salary in Other States
Related Optometrist Salaries in Minnesota
How other high-demand occupations in Minnesota compare to Optometrist ($158,700 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Optometrist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiologist in MN | $708,340 | +346.3% | $340.55/hr |
| Surgeon in MN | $568,150 | +258.0% | $273.15/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in MN | $496,510 | +212.9% | $238.71/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in MN | $390,940 | +146.3% | $187.95/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in MN | $373,700 | +135.5% | $179.66/hr |
| Psychiatrist in MN | $336,410 | +112.0% | $161.74/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in MN | $321,910 | +102.8% | $154.76/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in MN | $280,030 | +76.5% | $134.63/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in MN | $266,190 | +67.7% | $127.98/hr |
| Podiatrist in MN | $261,180 | +64.6% | $125.57/hr |
| Pediatrician in MN | $226,660 | +42.8% | $108.97/hr |
| Dentist in MN | $219,200 | +38.1% | $105.38/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do optometrists make in Minnesota?
- Optometrists in Minnesota earn a median salary of $158,700 per year, or $76 per hour. This is 16.6% higher than the national average for the profession, making Minnesota an above-average state for optometrist compensation.
What is the salary range for optometrists in Minnesota?
- Optometrist salaries in Minnesota range from $96,670 at the lower end to $206,960 at the higher end. This wide range reflects differences in experience, location within the state, and individual practice success.
Is optometry a well-paying job in Minnesota compared to the nation?
- Yes, optometry is particularly well-compensated in Minnesota, with the state paying 16.6% more than the national average. The median salary of $158,700 per year positions Minnesota as an attractive state for optometrists seeking competitive wages.
How many optometrists work in Minnesota?
- There are approximately 710 optometrists employed in Minnesota. This represents the total workforce in the state for this profession.