Optometrist Salary in Lexington, Kentucky
The median optometrist salary in Lexington, KY is $116,799 per year, which is 7% below the national median and 6.9% above the Kentucky state average.
Optometrist Pay in Lexington: What to Expect (2026)
Lexington offers a median optometrist salary of $116,799, which is $7,536 above the Kentucky state average of $109,263. Compared to the national median of $125,590, Lexington pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Lexington's cost of living is 93% 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 Lexington spans from $72,540 at the 10th percentile to $178,560 at the 90th percentile — a $106,020 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $76,260, while senior optometrists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $165,540. With a population of 322,570, Lexington is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Optometrist Salary in Lexington by Experience
In Lexington, an entry-level optometrist earns around $76,260, while experienced professionals earn up to $165,540 per year. The local cost of living index is 93% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Lexington, KY
| Percentile | Lexington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,540 |
| 25th Percentile | $93,000 |
| Median (50th) | $116,799 |
| 75th Percentile | $146,940 |
| 90th Percentile | $178,560 |
Optometrist Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Lexington
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Lexington and the surrounding Kentucky 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 Lexington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Optometrist Jobs in Lexington
Browse open optometrist positions in Lexington, KY: