Optometrist Salary in Hawaii
The median optometrist salary in Hawaii is $223,550 per year, which is 78.0% above the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for optometrists seeking high pay. At $223,550 per year, optometrists in Hawaii earn $97,960 more than the national median of $125,590.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $223,550 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $131,500.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $138,840, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $341,760 — a $202,920 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $229,830.
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 Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level optometrist earns around $145,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $316,840 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $223,550+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $138,840 |
| 25th Percentile | $178,000 |
| Median (50th) | $223,550 |
| 75th Percentile | $281,240 |
| 90th Percentile | $341,760 |
Optometrist Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for optometrists in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Optometrist in Hawaii
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Hawaii'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 $93,290 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Optometrist Roles in Hawaii?
Get matched with recruiters hiring optometrists in Hawaii at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: