Pay by Role
Switzerland · Salary comparison

Optometrist vs Registered Nurse salary

In Switzerland, a optometrist earns about 56% more than a registered nurse $233,538 vs $149,514 per year.

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

Pays more
Healthcare
Optometrist
$233,538/yr
Monthly
$19,523
Hourly
$112
Range
$170,520$310,643
10-yr outlook
+9%
Healthcare
Registered Nurse
$149,514/yr
Monthly
$12,480
Hourly
$72
Range
$109,108$198,816
10-yr outlook
+6%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileOptometristRegistered Nurse
Entry (10th)$170,520$109,108
25th$202,029$129,373
Median$233,538$149,514
75th$272,090$174,227
Senior (90th)$310,643$198,816

National Switzerland figures in CHF. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Healthcare comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a optometrist or registered nurse earn more in Switzerland?
A optometrist earns more, at about CHF 189'000 per year vs CHF 121'000 for a registered nurse — roughly 56% (CHF 68'000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in Switzerland?
A optometrist typically earns CHF 138'000–CHF 251'400, while a registered nurse earns CHF 88'300–CHF 160'900 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in Switzerland?
On a monthly basis before tax, a optometrist averages about CHF 15'800 and a registered nurse about CHF 10'100.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in Switzerland, a optometrist earns about CHF 138'000 while a registered nurse earns about CHF 88'300 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in Switzerland, a optometrist earns about CHF 251'400 while a registered nurse earns about CHF 160'900 per year.
Are optometrist and registered nurse 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.