Optometrist Salary in Minnesota
The median optometrist salary in Minnesota is $126,846 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in Minnesota (2026)
Minnesota ranks #17 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Minnesota falls in the middle of the pack for optometrist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $126,846 per year, optometrists in Minnesota earn $1,256 more than the national median of $125,590.
Minnesota's cost of living is near the national average at 97%, meaning optometrist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Minnesota is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $78,780, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $193,920 — a $115,140 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Minnesota for this role is Minneapolis, where the median reaches $136,893.
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 Minnesota by Experience
In Minnesota, an entry-level optometrist earns around $82,820, while experienced professionals earn up to $179,780 per year. The cost of living index in Minnesota is 97% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Minnesota
| Percentile | MN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $78,780 |
| 25th Percentile | $101,000 |
| Median (50th) | $126,846 |
| 75th Percentile | $159,580 |
| 90th Percentile | $193,920 |
Optometrist Salary by City in Minnesota
The largest employment areas for optometrists in Minnesota include Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Rochester, and Duluth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Optometrist in Minnesota
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Minnesota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Minnesota
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Minnesota'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 $52,934 over your career trajectory.
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