Optometrist vs Psychiatrist salary
In United States, a psychiatrist earns about 98% more than a optometrist — $301,000 vs $152,000 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
Pays more
Healthcare
Psychiatrist$301,000/yr
- Monthly
- $25,100
- Hourly
- $145
- Range
- $206,200–$416,900
- 10-yr outlook
- +8%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Optometrist | Psychiatrist |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $111,000 | $206,200 |
| 25th | $131,500 | $253,600 |
| Median | $152,000 | $301,000 |
| 75th | $177,100 | $358,900 |
| Senior (90th) | $202,200 | $416,900 |
National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Healthcare comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a optometrist or psychiatrist earn more in United States?
- A psychiatrist earns more, at about $301,000 per year vs $152,000 for a optometrist — roughly 98% ($149,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
- A optometrist typically earns $111,000–$202,200, while a psychiatrist earns $206,200–$416,900 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 psychiatrist about $25,100.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in United States, a optometrist earns about $111,000 while a psychiatrist earns about $206,200 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in United States, a optometrist earns about $202,200 while a psychiatrist earns about $416,900 per year.
- Are optometrist and psychiatrist 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.