Optometrist Salary in Arkansas
The median optometrist salary in Arkansas is $102,984 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Optometrist salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $102,984 per year, optometrists in Arkansas earn $22,606 less than the national median of $125,590.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $102,984 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $122,600 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $63,960, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $157,440 — a $93,480 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $108,007.
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for optometrists across the country.
Optometrist Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level optometrist earns around $67,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $145,960 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,960 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,000 |
| Median (50th) | $102,984 |
| 75th Percentile | $129,560 |
| 90th Percentile | $157,440 |
Optometrist Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for optometrists in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Optometrist in Arkansas
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Optometrists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $42,976 over your career trajectory.
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