Optometrist Salary (2025)
Optometrists examine eyes and prescribe corrective lenses.
The median Optometrist salary is $118,050 per year ($57/hour). Entry-level Optometrists earn around $85,000 while experienced Optometrists earn $160,000 or more annually.
Optometrists' salaries vary based on experience, specialization, and location. Specializations like pediatric optometry and ocular disease often command higher salaries, while entry-level positions start around $85,000. In regions with high demand, such as urban centers, salaries can exceed the median of $118,050, with senior optometrists earning up to $160,000 annually.
AI-generated insight based on BLS data · For reference only
Salary Range
Median: $118,050 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for Optometrists
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $168,000 | +42% |
| California | $163,000 | +38% |
| New York | $151,000 | +28% |
| Alaska | $148,000 | +25% |
| Massachusetts | $148,000 | +25% |
| New Jersey | $142,000 | +20% |
| Connecticut | $139,000 | +18% |
| Washington | $136,000 | +15% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a Optometrist
Most Optometrist positions require: Doctor of Optometry (OD). Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
Optometrist Salary by State
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Optometrist salary?
The median Optometrist salary is $118,050 per year, which works out to approximately $57/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level Optometrist make?
Entry-level Optometrists typically earn around $85,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior Optometrist's salary?
Experienced Optometrists can earn up to $160,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a Optometrist?
Most Optometrist positions require: Doctor of Optometry (OD).