Optometrist Salary in Independence, MO: $106,752 (2026)

Optometrist Pay in Independence: What to Expect (2026)

Independence offers a median optometrist salary of $106,752, which is $3,767 below the Missouri state average of $110,519. Compared to the national median of $125,590, Independence pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Independence's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 85% of the national average. This means the $106,752 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $125,591 in an average-cost city. This makes Independence an attractive option for optometrists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for optometrists in Independence spans from $66,300 at the 10th percentile to $163,200 at the 90th percentile — a $96,900 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $69,700, while senior optometrists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $151,300. With a population of 123,011, Independence is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.

Optometrist Salary in Independence by Experience

In Independence, an entry-level optometrist earns around $69,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $151,300 per year. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$69,700

$-12,300 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$108,800

$-19,200 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$151,300

$-26,700 vs national

Percentile	Independence	MO State	National
10th Percentile	$66,300	$68,640	$78,000
25th Percentile	$85,000	$88,000	$100,000
Median (50th)	$106,752	$110,519	$125,590
75th Percentile	$134,300	$139,040	$158,000
90th Percentile	$163,200	$168,960	$192,000

Percentile

Independence

10th Percentile

$66,300

25th Percentile

$85,000

Median (50th)

$106,752

75th Percentile

$134,300

90th Percentile

$163,200

How to Become a Optometrist in Independence

Education

Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Independence and the surrounding Missouri area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Eye ExaminationRefractionContact Lens FittingOcular DiseasePatient EducationDiagnostic Equipment

Job Outlook

Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Independence may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Optometrist Salary in Independence

How much does a Optometrist make in Independence, MO? ▼

The median optometrist salary in Independence, Missouri is $106,752 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $125,590. Salaries range from $66,300 (10th percentile) to $163,200 (90th percentile).

How much does a Optometrist make per hour in Independence? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $106,752, a optometrist in Independence earns approximately $51 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Independence compare to the Missouri state average for optometrist pay? ▼

Independence's median optometrist salary of $106,752 is 3.4% below the Missouri state average of $110,519. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Independence, MO? ▼

Independence has a cost of living index of 85% compared to the national average. This means a optometrist salary of $106,752 in Independence has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a optometrist in Independence? ▼

Most optometrist positions in Independence require a doctoral degree. Key skills include Eye Examination, Refraction, Contact Lens Fitting, Ocular Disease. The job market is projected to grow 9% nationally over the next decade.

Optometrist Salary in Independence, Missouri