Optometrist Salary in Rochester, Minnesota
The median optometrist salary in Rochester, MN is $128,102 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 1.0% above the Minnesota state average.
Optometrist Pay in Rochester: What to Expect (2026)
Rochester offers a median optometrist salary of $128,102, which is $1,256 above the Minnesota state average of $126,846. Compared to the national median of $125,590, Rochester pays above average for this role.
Rochester's cost of living is 98% 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 Rochester spans from $79,560 at the 10th percentile to $195,840 at the 90th percentile — a $116,280 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $83,640, while senior optometrists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $181,560. With a population of 121,395, Rochester is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Optometrist Salary in Rochester by Experience
In Rochester, an entry-level optometrist earns around $83,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $181,560 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Rochester, MN
| Percentile | Rochester |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,560 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,000 |
| Median (50th) | $128,102 |
| 75th Percentile | $161,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $195,840 |
Optometrist Salary in Other Minnesota Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Rochester
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Rochester and the surrounding Minnesota 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 Rochester may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Optometrist Jobs in Rochester
Browse open optometrist positions in Rochester, MN: