Pay by Role
Germany · Salary comparison

Optometrist vs Physician salary

In Germany, a optometrist earns about 21% more than a physician $207,575 vs $172,219 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is EUR). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Pays more
Healthcare
Optometrist
$207,575/yr
Monthly
$17,336
Hourly
$100
Range
$151,576$276,121
10-yr outlook
+9%
Healthcare
Physician
$172,219/yr
Monthly
$14,371
Hourly
$83
Range
$110,175$247,950
10-yr outlook
+3%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileOptometristPhysician
Entry (10th)$151,576$110,175
25th$179,518$141,197
Median$207,575$172,219
75th$241,791$210,085
Senior (90th)$276,121$247,950

National Germany figures in EUR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Healthcare comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a optometrist or physician earn more in Germany?
A optometrist earns more, at about 182.000 € per year vs 151.000 € for a physician — roughly 21% (31.000 €) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in Germany?
A optometrist typically earns 132.900 €–242.100 €, while a physician earns 96.600 €–217.400 € per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in Germany?
On a monthly basis before tax, a optometrist averages about 15.200 € and a physician about 12.600 €.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in Germany, a optometrist earns about 132.900 € while a physician earns about 96.600 € per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in Germany, a optometrist earns about 242.100 € while a physician earns about 217.400 € 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.