Optometrist vs Physician salary
In Canada, a physician earns about 58% more than a optometrist — $272,499 vs $172,253 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is CAD). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
Pays more
Healthcare
Physician$272,499/yr
- Monthly
- $22,732
- Hourly
- $131
- Range
- $174,371–$392,370
- 10-yr outlook
- +3%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Optometrist | Physician |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $125,731 | $174,371 |
| 25th | $149,027 | $223,435 |
| Median | $172,253 | $272,499 |
| 75th | $200,703 | $332,434 |
| Senior (90th) | $229,083 | $392,370 |
National Canada figures in CAD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Healthcare comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a optometrist or physician earn more in Canada?
- A physician earns more, at about $386,000 per year vs $244,000 for a optometrist — roughly 58% ($142,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in Canada?
- A optometrist typically earns $178,100–$324,500, while a physician earns $247,000–$555,800 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in Canada?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a optometrist averages about $20,300 and a physician about $32,200.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in Canada, a optometrist earns about $178,100 while a physician earns about $247,000 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in Canada, a optometrist earns about $324,500 while a physician earns about $555,800 per year.
- Are optometrist and physician similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Healthcare category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.