Optometrist Salary in Waterbury, Connecticut
The median optometrist salary in Waterbury, CT is $128,102 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 12.1% below the Connecticut state average.
Optometrist Pay in Waterbury: What to Expect (2026)
Waterbury offers a median optometrist salary of $128,102, which is $17,582 below the Connecticut state average of $145,684. Compared to the national median of $125,590, Waterbury pays above average for this role.
Waterbury's cost of living is 98% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for optometrists in Waterbury spans from $79,560 at the 10th percentile to $195,840 at the 90th percentile — a $116,280 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $83,640, while senior optometrists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $181,560. With a population of 114,403, Waterbury is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Optometrist Salary in Waterbury by Experience
In Waterbury, an entry-level optometrist earns around $83,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $181,560 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Waterbury, CT
| Percentile | Waterbury |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,560 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,000 |
| Median (50th) | $128,102 |
| 75th Percentile | $161,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $195,840 |
Optometrist Salary in Other Connecticut Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Waterbury
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Waterbury and the surrounding Connecticut 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 Waterbury may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Optometrist Jobs in Waterbury
Browse open optometrist positions in Waterbury, CT: