Optometrist Salary in Boulder, Colorado
The median optometrist salary in Boulder, CO is $163,267 per year, which is 30.0% above the national median and 21.5% above the Colorado state average.
Optometrist Pay in Boulder: What to Expect (2026)
Boulder offers a median optometrist salary of $163,267, which is $28,886 above the Colorado state average of $134,381. Compared to the national median of $125,590, Boulder pays above average for this role.
However, Boulder's cost of living index is 128%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $163,267 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $127,552. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Boulder should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for optometrists in Boulder spans from $101,400 at the 10th percentile to $249,600 at the 90th percentile — a $148,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $106,600, while senior optometrists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $231,400. With a population of 105,673, Boulder is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Optometrist Salary in Boulder by Experience
In Boulder, an entry-level optometrist earns around $106,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $231,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 128% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Boulder, CO
| Percentile | Boulder |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $101,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $130,000 |
| Median (50th) | $163,267 |
| 75th Percentile | $205,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $249,600 |
Optometrist Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Boulder
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Boulder and the surrounding Colorado area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Boulder may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Optometrist Jobs in Boulder
Browse open optometrist positions in Boulder, CO: