Optometrist Salary in Kansas
The median optometrist salary in Kansas is $109,263 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in Kansas (2026)
Kansas ranks #45 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Optometrist salaries in Kansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $109,263 per year, optometrists in Kansas earn $16,327 less than the national median of $125,590.
A key advantage of working in Kansas is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $109,263 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $125,590 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kansas is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $67,860, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $167,040 — a $99,180 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Kansas for this role is Overland Park, where the median reaches $120,566.
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 Kansas by Experience
In Kansas, an entry-level optometrist earns around $71,340, while experienced professionals earn up to $154,860 per year. The cost of living index in Kansas is 87% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Kansas
| Percentile | KS Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $67,860 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,000 |
| Median (50th) | $109,263 |
| 75th Percentile | $137,460 |
| 90th Percentile | $167,040 |
Optometrist Salary by City in Kansas
The largest employment areas for optometrists in Kansas include Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, and Topeka. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Optometrist in Kansas
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Kansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kansas
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Kansas'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 $45,597 over your career trajectory.
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