Optometrist vs Physical Therapist salary
In United States, a optometrist earns about 38% more than a physical therapist — $152,000 vs $110,000 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Healthcare
Optometrist$152,000/yr
- Monthly
- $12,700
- Hourly
- $73
- Range
- $111,000–$202,200
- 10-yr outlook
- +9%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Optometrist | Physical Therapist |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $111,000 | $82,300 |
| 25th | $131,500 | $96,100 |
| Median | $152,000 | $110,000 |
| 75th | $177,100 | $126,900 |
| Senior (90th) | $202,200 | $143,900 |
National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Healthcare comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a optometrist or physical therapist earn more in United States?
- A optometrist earns more, at about $152,000 per year vs $110,000 for a physical therapist — roughly 38% ($42,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
- A optometrist typically earns $111,000–$202,200, while a physical therapist earns $82,300–$143,900 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a optometrist averages about $12,700 and a physical therapist about $9,200.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in United States, a optometrist earns about $111,000 while a physical therapist earns about $82,300 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in United States, a optometrist earns about $202,200 while a physical therapist earns about $143,900 per year.
- Are optometrist and physical therapist 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.