Optometrist Salary US: Optometry remains one of the most respected and rewarding careers in the healthcare sector. As primary eye care providers, optometrists are responsible for diagnosing vision problems, prescribing corrective lenses, and detecting ocular diseases. With aging populations and increased screen time contributing to eye strain, demand for qualified optometrists continues to grow across the United States. One crucial aspect of choosing this path, however, is understanding the potential income and what influences it.
Key Takeaways:
- The average annual salary for optometrists in the U.S. is approximately $129,000 as of 2025.
- Highest salaries are typically found in private practices, surgical clinics, and corporate retail chains.
- States like Alaska, Connecticut, and North Dakota lead the chart with the top pay.
- Additional certifications, sub-specializations, and business ownership significantly increase earning potential.
- The industry projects steady salary growth fueled by technology integration and rising vision care needs.
Who Is an Optometrist?
An optometrist (OD) is a healthcare professional trained to examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system. Unlike ophthalmologists, who are medical doctors and perform surgeries, optometrists focus on non-invasive treatment, vision therapy, and corrective lenses.
Work settings include:
- Independent optometry clinics
- Group medical practices
- Retail optical chains
- Hospitals and surgical centers
- Academic and research institutions
Their role often extends to detecting signs of systemic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension during eye exams, positioning them as vital components of preventative healthcare.
National Average Optometrist Salary US in 2025
The average Optometrist Salary US in 2025 is estimated to be around $129,000 per year, translating to $62 per hour. However, this figure fluctuates depending on multiple variables like location, experience, employment type, and ownership of practice.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 years) | $85,000 – $100,000 |
| Mid-Career (3–7 years) | $110,000 – $135,000 |
| Experienced (8+ years) | $140,000 – $160,000 |
| Clinic Owners/Partners | $160,000 – $200,000+ |
Highest Paying States for Optometrists
Several states consistently offer higher pay due to limited supply, cost of living, or statewide health initiatives.
| State | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Alaska | $160,000 |
| North Dakota | $152,000 |
| Connecticut | $148,000 |
| New Mexico | $143,000 |
| Minnesota | $141,000 |
These regions may offer attractive compensation but often require relocation to less densely populated areas.
Top Paying Cities for Optometrists
Urban hubs can offer higher pay, but the competition may be stiffer, and the cost of living can offset salary advantages.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Anchorage, AK | $164,000 |
| Hartford, CT | $150,000 |
| Fargo, ND | $149,000 |
| Santa Fe, NM | $146,000 |
| Minneapolis, MN | $142,000 |
Factors That Influence Optometrist Salary US
A variety of components contribute to what an optometrist can expect to earn:
1. Location
Urban vs. rural placement, state healthcare policies, and local demand all significantly impact earnings.
2. Work Setting
Those working in hospitals or large clinics may receive benefits and stability, while private practitioners or retail optometrists often have higher income ceilings due to bonus structures and sales commissions.
3. Practice Ownership
Optometrists who own or co-own practices typically earn 25–40% more than salaried employees due to control over pricing, patient volume, and service expansion.
4. Specializations
Pursuing niches such as pediatric optometry, vision therapy, or ocular disease management can lead to higher pay.
5. Years of Experience
Long-term professionals often benefit from patient loyalty, referral networks, and higher efficiency in practice management.
Salary Comparison by Work Setting
| Work Environment | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Private Practice Owner | $165,000 |
| Multi-specialty Clinic | $135,000 |
| Retail Optical Chains | $130,000 |
| Government Services | $122,000 |
| Academic Institutions | $95,000 |
Private practice owners take on more risk but usually enjoy better earnings and autonomy.
Additional Income Streams for Optometrists
Beyond base pay, many optometrists boost their income through:
- Eyewear sales commissions
- Co-management of LASIK or cataract patients
- Dry eye clinics and therapy services
- Product partnerships or speaking engagements
- Real estate investments within medical complexes
Optometry offers several avenues to expand one’s income and influence.
Perks and Benefits Beyond Salary
The value of compensation extends beyond a paycheck. Most optometrists in full-time roles enjoy:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Malpractice insurance coverage
- Paid holidays and continuing education allowance
- Retirement plans (401k, profit-sharing)
- Licensing reimbursement
- Flexible working hours or four-day workweeks
These benefits are especially significant in corporate optometry and government healthcare systems.
Job Outlook: Is Optometry Still a Growing Field?
Yes. The demand for optometrists is expected to grow by 9% through 2034, according to labor projections. This growth is due to:
- An aging population experiencing more age-related vision issues
- Increased use of digital devices, leading to digital eye strain
- Growing awareness of preventative eye care
- Integration of tele-optometry in remote areas
New graduates face less saturation than in other healthcare fields and enjoy good job security, especially in underserved communities.
How to Increase Your Optometrist Salary US
If you’re looking to maximize your earning potential, consider the following strategies:
- Open or buy into a private practice
- Add high-margin services like orthokeratology or myopia control
- Pursue continuing education and specialization
- Relocate to underserved or rural areas
- Offer weekend or after-hours appointments
These moves can help distinguish your service and increase patient volume.
Optometrist Salary US vs. Other Eye Care Professions
| Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Optometrist (OD) | $129,000 |
| Ophthalmologist (MD) | $270,000+ |
| Optician | $42,000 |
| Vision Therapist | $65,000 |
| Ophthalmic Technician | $45,000 |
Optometrists occupy a strong middle ground, requiring fewer years of schooling than ophthalmologists while earning more than optical support staff.
Pros and Cons of an Optometrist Career
Pros:
- High earning potential with good work-life balance
- Opportunity for practice ownership
- Steady job growth and security
- Minimal emergency work
- Respectable and flexible healthcare profession
Cons:
- High student loan debt from optometry school
- Intense competition in urban markets
- Regulatory compliance and insurance paperwork
- Long hours for practice owners
Weighing these factors helps decide whether optometry aligns with your career goals.
Final Thoughts
Optometry offers a rare combination of personal satisfaction, financial reward, and flexible work-life integration. With robust average salaries, multiple career paths, and a positive employment outlook, it continues to attract top-tier talent in healthcare. Whether you aim to become a practice owner, specialize in pediatric eye care, or lead innovation in tele-optometry, the field provides a clear vision for long-term success.
FAQs
How much does a new optometrist make per year?
Most new graduates earn between $85,000 and $100,000, depending on location and job type.
Can an optometrist earn more than $150,000?
Yes. With experience, specialization, or ownership of a private clinic, optometrists can exceed $150,000 annually.
Do retail optometrists make less than private practice ODs?
Generally, yes—but many retail optometrists benefit from commission bonuses and corporate perks that level the playing field.
Which state pays optometrists the highest salaries?
Alaska leads in average compensation, followed by North Dakota and Connecticut.
Is the demand for optometrists expected to rise?
Yes. The field is projected to grow 9% through 2034, with increased demand for routine and specialized vision care.