Optometrist Salary in United States

Optometrist pay in United States: Washington DC leads, Phoenix trails

The United States national median for a optometrist is $142,000 a year. Among 9 metros with observed data, pay runs from about $116,000 in Phoenix to $199,000 in Washington DC (1.7×).

Optometrists examine eyes, diagnose vision problems, and prescribe corrective lenses. Common screening skills include Eye exams, Diagnosis, Optics, and Patient care.

A modeled national band runs about $103,700–$188,900 around that midpoint. Many top cash roles in the United States still run through employer sponsorship and specialty licensing. Employment outlook for the occupation is sketched at +9% over a decade — a national demand guess, not a hiring guarantee in every American city.

Washington DC sits +40% vs the national median; Phoenix sits -18%. Relocating inside United States for this title can move cash more than a small raise at the same desk. Open a city page for take-home and rent context — this national page is the map, not the offer.

United States shows about 2.9% CPI in 2024. A optometrist raise that trails inflation is a real-pay cut even if it still beats last year’s peers. This occupation is also covered in 39 other countries — useful for remote or relocation shortlists, after FX and local tax. Nearby healthcare titles on this site include Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Physician, and Pharmacist.