Optometrist vs Registered Nurse salary
In United States, a optometrist earns about 50% more than a registered nurse — $152,000 vs $101,000 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
Pays more
Healthcare
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 | Registered Nurse |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $111,000 | $73,700 |
| 25th | $131,500 | $87,400 |
| Median | $152,000 | $101,000 |
| 75th | $177,100 | $117,700 |
| Senior (90th) | $202,200 | $134,300 |
National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Healthcare comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a optometrist or registered nurse earn more in United States?
- A optometrist earns more, at about $152,000 per year vs $101,000 for a registered nurse — roughly 50% ($51,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
- A optometrist typically earns $111,000–$202,200, while a registered nurse earns $73,700–$134,300 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 registered nurse about $8,400.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in United States, a optometrist earns about $111,000 while a registered nurse earns about $73,700 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in United States, a optometrist earns about $202,200 while a registered nurse earns about $134,300 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.