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How much does a Optometrist make?

The average salary for a Optometrist is $144,917 per year in the US.

Optometrists enjoy a rewarding career that combines healthcare and vision care. Their average yearly salary stands at a solid $144,917. This figure reflects the important role they play in diagnosing and treating eye conditions. Optometrists help people see better and maintain eye health, which makes their work both impactful and financially rewarding.

The salary range for optometrists varies, offering many opportunities depending on experience and location. Here are the pay ranges for different percentiles:

  • 10th percentile: $46,800
  • 25th percentile: $68,114
  • 50th percentile: $132,055
  • 75th percentile: $174,682
  • 90th percentile: $217,309
These figures highlight the growth potential in this field. As optometrists gain experience, they often see significant increases in their salaries. This career path offers stability and the chance for financial growth.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Optometrist?

Optometrists can find some of the highest paying jobs in Wilmington, NC, where the average salary reaches $238,428. Durham, NC, and Richmond, VA, also offer strong salaries around $236,886 and $233,333, respectively. Job seekers might consider these cities for excellent career opportunities and competitive compensation.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Optometrist jobs, highlighting Wilmington, NC with the highest at $238,428 and Bakersfield, CA with the lowest at $195,893.
  1. Wilmington, NC
    Average Salary: $238,428
    In Wilmington, NC, eye care professionals find a blend of community care and medical practice. Eye clinics and local hospitals provide a variety of opportunities to serve the community. Wilmington Eye is one such facility offering modern technology and patient care.
    Find Optometrist jobs in Wilmington, NC


  2. Durham, NC
    Average Salary: $236,886
    Durham, NC, offers a dynamic environment for those in the eye care field. This city supports numerous eye care facilities with advanced technology. Duke Eye Center stands out with its research and patient services, making it a notable place to work.
    Find Optometrist jobs in Durham, NC


  3. Richmond, VA
    Average Salary: $233,333
    Working as an optometrist in Richmond, VA, means being part of a city with a rich history in healthcare. Local practices and larger clinics provide a range of experiences. Bon Secours Richmond Health System offers comprehensive eye care services.
    Find Optometrist jobs in Richmond, VA


  4. Raleigh, NC
    Average Salary: $208,182
    Raleigh, NC, presents a vibrant setting for eye care professionals. The city's numerous eye care practices offer a mix of patient care and community outreach. Raleigh Eye Center is known for its quality care and patient satisfaction.
    Find Optometrist jobs in Raleigh, NC


  5. New Orleans, LA
    Average Salary: $200,354
    New Orleans, LA, combines a rich cultural backdrop with a need for eye care services. The city’s diverse population presents unique challenges and opportunities. Ochsner Health and other local clinics provide extensive eye care services.
    Find Optometrist jobs in New Orleans, LA


  6. Columbia, SC
    Average Salary: $198,746
    Columbia, SC, provides a supportive environment for eye care professionals. The city’s growing population leads to a steady demand for eye care services. Palmetto Health and other local practices offer various opportunities.
    Find Optometrist jobs in Columbia, SC


  7. Reno, NV
    Average Salary: $196,436
    Reno, NV, offers a mix of urban and outdoor living for optometrists. The city’s growing healthcare sector provides numerous job opportunities. Sierra Eye Medical Group is known for its comprehensive care and advanced technology.
    Find Optometrist jobs in Reno, NV


  8. Fresno, CA
    Average Salary: $196,083
    In Fresno, CA, optometrists find a growing market for their services. The city’s diverse community provides varied experiences. Kaiser Permanente and other local clinics offer a range of services and technologies.
    Find Optometrist jobs in Fresno, CA


  9. Augusta, GA
    Average Salary: $195,895
    Augusta, GA, presents a stable environment for eye care professionals. The city’s healthcare facilities offer a range of opportunities. Augusta University Health provides extensive eye care services and is a prominent employer.
    Find Optometrist jobs in Augusta, GA


  10. Bakersfield, CA
    Average Salary: $195,893
    Bakersfield, CA, offers a range of opportunities for optometrists. The city’s healthcare sector is growing, providing many job openings. Kaiser Permanente Bakersfield and other local practices offer a variety of services.
    Find Optometrist jobs in Bakersfield, CA

What are the best companies a Optometrist can work for?

Top-tier companies like The MedServ Group and ExcelHealth Group offer excellent salaries for Optometrists. With average salaries around $287,577 and $279,167 respectively, they lead in compensation. Talented Medical Solutions, DocRite, and Millbrook Support Services also provide competitive pay, making them strong choices for those in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Optometrist jobs, highlighting The MedServ Group with the highest at $287,577 and Purple Cow Recruiting with the lowest at $216,591.
  1. The MedServ Group
    Average Salary: $287,577
    The MedServ Group offers rewarding opportunities for optometrists. They have clinics across major cities in the US. They focus on comprehensive eye care services, and provide a supportive work environment.


  2. ExcelHealth Group
    Average Salary: $279,167
    ExcelHealth Group provides excellent positions for optometrists. Their locations span several states. The company emphasizes patient care and offers growth opportunities.


  3. Talented Medical Solutions
    Average Salary: $278,071
    Talented Medical Solutions is a great choice for optometrists. They operate clinics nationwide. They focus on quality eye care and provide a dynamic work setting.


  4. DocRite
    Average Salary: $273,698
    DocRite offers competitive salaries for optometrists. They have locations across the country. The company values professional development and offers a collaborative atmosphere.


  5. Millbrook Support Services
    Average Salary: $268,364
    Millbrook Support Services provides rewarding jobs for optometrists. They have offices in many states. They focus on patient care and offer a supportive work environment.


  6. Legacy Personnel, Inc.
    Average Salary: $235,346
    Legacy Personnel, Inc. offers good opportunities for optometrists. They have clinics in various cities. They emphasize career growth and offer a welcoming work environment.


  7. Innovent Global, Inc.
    Average Salary: $231,373
    Innovent Global, Inc. provides competitive salaries for optometrists. Their clinics are located in several states. They focus on patient care and offer a dynamic work setting.


  8. DocStar Medical Partners
    Average Salary: $224,267
    DocStar Medical Partners offers good jobs for optometrists. They have locations nationwide. The company values teamwork and offers a supportive work environment.


  9. BestNest Management
    Average Salary: $223,713
    BestNest Management provides rewarding positions for optometrists. Their clinics are in many states. They focus on patient care and offer growth opportunities.


  10. Purple Cow Recruiting
    Average Salary: $216,591
    Purple Cow Recruiting offers good opportunities for optometrists. They have offices in several cities. They focus on quality eye care and offer a collaborative work environment.

How to earn more as a Optometrist?

Optometrists have the chance to improve their earnings through various strategies. Specializing in a particular area can lead to higher demand and better pay. For instance, focusing on pediatric eye care or vision therapy can open up more job opportunities and allow for higher rates. Continuous education and certifications also play a crucial role in enhancing earning potential. Attending workshops, courses, and earning advanced certifications can set an optometrist apart and justify higher fees.

Another significant factor is the location of practice. Optometrists who work in areas with a high demand for eye care services and lower competition can command higher fees. Expanding into areas such as contact lens fittings or cosmetic services like eyelash extensions can also add to an optometrist's income. Networking and building strong relationships with other healthcare providers can lead to referrals and more patients. Lastly, owning or partnering in a well-established practice can provide steady income and the potential for profit sharing.

Consider these steps to increase earnings as an optometrist:

  1. Specialize in a niche area of optometry
  2. Pursue continuous education and certifications
  3. Choose a location with high demand and low competition
  4. Offer additional services such as contact lenses or cosmetic procedures
  5. Network with other healthcare providers for referrals

Currently 812 Optometrist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Optometrist in the US?

Learn what a Optometrist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Optometrist today.
Position
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Optometrist
812 Job Openings