Optometrists Salary in the United States
Median pay, percentile range, and top US metros — official BLS data.
The median salary for Optometrists in the United States is $136,570 per year — about $66 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Half of all workers in this occupation earn between $109,400 and $165,120 a year.
Salary range
Top US metros for Optometrists
| Metro | Local salary |
|---|---|
| La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN | $175,810 |
| Peoria, IL | $166,600 |
| Birmingham, AL | $162,890 |
| Winston-Salem, NC | $162,540 |
| Killeen-Temple, TX | $160,460 |
| Asheville, NC | $167,980 |
| Kingsport-Bristol, TN-VA | $150,420 |
| Albuquerque, NM | $165,810 |
| Huntsville, AL | $161,170 |
| Buffalo-Cheektowaga, NY | $165,640 |
Frequently asked questions
How much do Optometrists make in the US?
The median salary is $136,570 per year (about $66 per hour), according to BLS data. The middle 50% of workers earn between $109,400 and $165,120 a year.
How much do Optometrists make per hour?
About $66 per hour, based on the median annual salary of $136,570 for full-time work (2,080 hours per year).
What education do you need to work as Optometrists?
Typical entry-level education: Doctoral / Professional, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Do these salary figures include bonuses or overtime?
No. BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics reflect base wages only — they exclude overtime pay, bonuses, and most benefits.
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