Optometrist Salary in Delaware
The median optometrist salary in Delaware is $129,358 per year, which is 3.0% above the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in Delaware (2026)
Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Delaware falls in the middle of the pack for optometrist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $129,358 per year, optometrists in Delaware earn $3,768 more than the national median of $125,590.
Delaware's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning optometrist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Delaware is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $80,340, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $197,760 — a $117,420 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Delaware for this role is Wilmington, where the median reaches $134,381.
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 Delaware by Experience
In Delaware, an entry-level optometrist earns around $84,460, while experienced professionals earn up to $183,340 per year. The cost of living index in Delaware is 101% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Delaware
| Percentile | DE Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $80,340 |
| 25th Percentile | $103,000 |
| Median (50th) | $129,358 |
| 75th Percentile | $162,740 |
| 90th Percentile | $197,760 |
Optometrist Salary by City in Delaware
The largest employment areas for optometrists in Delaware include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Middletown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Optometrist in Delaware
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Delaware has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Delaware
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Delaware'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 $53,982 over your career trajectory.
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