Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Occupational Therapist vs Optometrist salary

In United States, a optometrist earns about 43% more than a occupational therapist — $152,000 vs $106,000 per year.

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

Healthcare
Occupational Therapist
$106,000/yr
Monthly
$8,800
Hourly
$51
Range
$79,300–$138,600
10-yr outlook
+12%
Pays more
Healthcare
Optometrist
$152,000/yr
Monthly
$12,700
Hourly
$73
Range
$111,000–$202,200
10-yr outlook
+9%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileOccupational TherapistOptometrist
Entry (10th)$79,300$111,000
25th$92,600$131,500
Median$106,000$152,000
75th$122,300$177,100
Senior (90th)$138,600$202,200

National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Healthcare comparisons

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Frequently asked questions

Does a occupational therapist or optometrist earn more in United States?
A optometrist earns more, at about $152,000 per year vs $106,000 for a occupational therapist — roughly 43% ($46,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A occupational therapist typically earns $79,300–$138,600, while a optometrist earns $111,000–$202,200 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
On a monthly basis before tax, a occupational therapist averages about $8,800 and a optometrist about $12,700.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a occupational therapist earns about $79,300 while a optometrist earns about $111,000 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a occupational therapist earns about $138,600 while a optometrist earns about $202,200 per year.
Are occupational therapist and optometrist 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.