What Someone Seeking a Job as an Optometrist Can Expect for a Salary Range
If you're considering a career in optometry, one of the most important factors to consider is salary. Optometry can be a lucrative field, but salaries can vary depending on a number of factors, including experience, location, and employer. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what someone seeking a job in optometry can expect the salary range to be.
Average Salary for Optometrists
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for optometrists in the United States was $120,530 as of May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $67,240 per year, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $204,610 per year.
Factors That Affect Salary
As mentioned earlier, there are several factors that can affect an optometrist's salary. Here are some of the most important factors to consider:
Experience: Optometrists with more experience typically earn higher salaries than those who are just starting out. For example, according to the BLS, optometrists with less than one year of experience earn a median salary of $87,470 per year, while those with 20 or more years of experience earn a median salary of $140,460 per year.
Location: Salaries for optometrists can vary depending on where you work. According to the BLS, the states with the highest average salaries for optometrists as of May 2020 were:
- North Dakota: $186,690 per year
- Alaska: $173,010 per year
- Massachusetts: $170,940 per year
- New Mexico: $168,450 per year
- Vermont: $162,480 per year
Type of Employer: Optometrists can work in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospitals, and retail settings. Salaries can vary depending on the type of employer. According to the BLS, optometrists who work in physicians' offices earn a median salary of $123,920 per year, while those who work in health and personal care stores earn a median salary of $114,180 per year.
Specialization: Optometrists can also specialize in certain areas, such as pediatric optometry or low vision rehabilitation. Specializing in a particular area can lead to higher salaries. For example, according to the BLS, optometrists who specialize in other health practitioners earn a median salary of $138,170 per year.
Education: Optometrists who have earned advanced degrees, such as a Doctor of Optometry (OD) or a PhD, may be eligible for higher salaries. Advanced degrees can also lead to opportunities for advancement within the field.
Conclusion
Overall, optometry can be a lucrative field for those who are interested in vision care. While salaries can vary depending on a number of factors, including experience, location, and employer, the median annual salary for optometrists is $120,530 as of May 2020. If you're considering a career in optometry, it's important to do your research to determine the salary range for your desired position and location.