Optometry is a growing healthcare field focused on eye care, vision correction, and overall ocular health. With advances in medical technology and an aging population, the demand for optometrists is rising. If you’re considering a career in optometry or want to understand compensation trends, this guide explores the average optometrist salary in 2026, factors influencing earnings, experience-based pay, job market trends, benefits, and education requirements.
What Does an Optometrist Do?
Optometrists are primary eye care providers who diagnose vision problems, prescribe corrective lenses, and detect eye diseases. Their work typically includes:
- Conducting comprehensive eye exams
- Prescribing eyeglasses and contact lenses
- Diagnosing and managing eye conditions like glaucoma and cataracts
- Collaborating with ophthalmologists for advanced treatments
- Educating patients on eye health and preventative care
A career in optometry blends patient care, healthcare expertise, and business management for those who run their own practices.
Average Optometrist Salary in 2026
In 2026, optometrists enjoy competitive salaries due to specialized skills, patient care responsibilities, and healthcare demand.
U.S. Average Salary Range
| Employment Setting | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Private Practice | $110,000 – $150,000 |
| Retail Chains (e.g., LensCrafters) | $95,000 – $125,000 |
| Hospitals/Clinics | $100,000 – $140,000 |
| Academic/Research | $85,000 – $130,000 |
The national average sits around $120,000 per year, but salaries can vary based on location, experience, and employer type.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly impacts earnings for optometrists.
Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
- Salary Range: $85,000 – $100,000
- Includes recent graduates and new practice associates
- Focus on building patient base and gaining hands-on experience
Mid-Level (3–7 Years)
- Salary Range: $105,000 – $135,000
- Increased patient load and managerial responsibilities
- Opportunity for bonuses or profit-sharing in private practices
Senior-Level (8–15 Years)
- Salary Range: $130,000 – $160,000
- Experienced practitioners with established clientele
- Often manage staff and operations within their practice
Top-Level/Practice Owners (15+ Years)
- Salary Range: $160,000 – $200,000+
- Practice ownership significantly boosts earning potential
- Reputation, patient loyalty, and multiple revenue streams contribute to higher income
Factors That Influence Optometrist Salary
Several key factors affect how much optometrists earn:
1. Education & Licensure
- Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree is required
- Passing national board exams and state licensure essential
- Additional certifications (e.g., in specialty fields like pediatrics or ocular disease) can increase salary
2. Work Setting
- Private practice owners usually earn the highest
- Retail chains provide stability but slightly lower pay
- Hospitals and research positions offer benefits but moderate salaries
3. Geographic Location
- Urban centers with high demand offer higher wages
- Rural areas may offer incentives but lower base pay
4. Technical Skills
- Expertise in advanced diagnostics (OCT, visual field testing)
- Experience with specialty contact lenses or ocular disease management
5. Patient Volume & Reputation
- Higher patient throughput in private practices can directly impact earnings
- Professional reputation and referrals play a major role
Job Market Trends in 2026
Optometry is expected to remain a stable and growing field:
- Aging Population: Increasing demand for eye care among seniors
- Healthcare Expansion: Rising access to vision care services
- Technological Integration: Growth of tele-optometry and advanced diagnostics
- Specialization Opportunities: Pediatric optometry, ocular disease, and vision therapy
Employment growth is projected to remain steady, making it a reliable career choice.
Benefits Beyond Salary
Optometrists enjoy more than just financial rewards:
- Flexible work schedules in clinics and private practices
- High job stability and low unemployment risk
- Opportunities to own and manage a practice
- Intellectual satisfaction and patient impact
- Paid continuing education and professional development
Education & Certifications That Impact Salary
Required Education
- Doctor of Optometry (OD) Degree: 4-year professional program
- Undergraduate Degree: Typically in biology, chemistry, or pre-med
Certifications & Specialty Training
- Pediatric Optometry Certification
- Ocular Disease Specialist Certification
- Vision Therapy Certification
- Fellowship or advanced training in ocular surgery co-management
Additional certifications often lead to higher-paying specialty roles.
Optometrist Salary Compared to Related Careers
| Career | Average Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Optometrist | $110,000 – $150,000 |
| Ophthalmologist | $250,000 – $400,000 |
| Physician Assistant (Specialty) | $95,000 – $140,000 |
| Dentist | $150,000 – $220,000 |
| General Practitioner | $120,000 – $180,000 |
While ophthalmologists and dentists may earn more, optometrists have a more balanced work-life schedule and less intensive training duration.
Job Outlook for Optometrists
- Steady demand in both private and retail settings
- Opportunities for practice ownership increase long-term financial gains
- Emerging technologies like telemedicine enhance career flexibility
- Continuous professional development ensures career growth
Optometrists are likely to experience stable employment with a strong ability to increase earnings over time.
Is Optometry a Good Career in 2026?
Optometry remains an attractive career for those seeking:
- High earning potential with manageable work-life balance
- A stable healthcare profession
- Opportunities for private practice ownership and specialty work
- Intellectual fulfillment and patient impact
With proper education, licensure, and experience, optometrists can enjoy both financial and professional rewards.
Final Thoughts
The average optometrist salary in 2026 reflects a competitive, growing healthcare profession. Earnings are influenced by experience, education, location, and specialty. With increasing demand for eye care and flexible career options, optometry continues to be a financially rewarding and personally fulfilling profession.