According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (yes, that boring-sounding place), the median optometrist salary in the U.S. hovers around $125,000 per year. That’s more than most of us make, but less than your cousin who’s a neurosurgeon. Think of it as the “comfortable, but not flashy” sweet spot.
But wait—that’s just the median. The top 10%? They pull in over $185,000. The bottom 10%? Closer to $85,000. So yes, where you work matters a lot. It’s like real estate: location, location, location (and maybe a little luck).
Pro tip: Don’t base your life choices on the lowest number. That’s like planning a vacation around a Motel 6. You can do better.
Optometrist Salary Details - Average Pay by State
Who Pays the Most? (Hint: It’s Not Your Local Mall)
Working at a big-box retail store like Costco or Walmart? You’ll likely start around $110,000 to $130,000. It’s steady, but you might feel like a glorified glasses salesman. “These frames really bring out your… face!” Sound familiar?
Private practice owners? Oh, they’re the real wild cards. A solid solo practice can net $150,000 to $200,000 annually. But—and this is a huge “but”—you also get to deal with staff quitting, insurance headaches, and that one patient who insists their vision is “perfect” after two hours of arguing. Freedom comes with a price.
Hospitals and clinics? They offer $130,000 to $160,000, plus benefits that don’t suck. Less drama, more stability. It’s the “safe bet” of the eye-care world.
Optometry Scribe Salary – 75+ Optical Scribe Jobs, Employment April 25
