Pay by Role
Switzerland · Salary comparison

Optometrist vs Surgeon salary

In Switzerland, a surgeon earns about 117% more than a optometrist $506,617 vs $233,538 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

Healthcare
Optometrist
$233,538/yr
Monthly
$19,523
Hourly
$112
Range
$170,520$310,643
10-yr outlook
+9%
Pays more
Healthcare
Surgeon
$506,617/yr
Monthly
$42,259
Hourly
$243
Range
$324,235$729,528
10-yr outlook
+3%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileOptometristSurgeon
Entry (10th)$170,520$324,235
25th$202,029$415,426
Median$233,538$506,617
75th$272,090$618,073
Senior (90th)$310,643$729,528

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

More Healthcare comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a optometrist or surgeon earn more in Switzerland?
A surgeon earns more, at about CHF 410'000 per year vs CHF 189'000 for a optometrist — roughly 117% (CHF 221'000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in Switzerland?
A optometrist typically earns CHF 138'000–CHF 251'400, while a surgeon earns CHF 262'400–CHF 590'400 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 surgeon about CHF 34'200.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in Switzerland, a optometrist earns about CHF 138'000 while a surgeon earns about CHF 262'400 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in Switzerland, a optometrist earns about CHF 251'400 while a surgeon earns about CHF 590'400 per year.
Are optometrist and surgeon 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.