Optometrist Salary in Paterson, New Jersey
The median optometrist salary in Paterson, NJ is $138,149 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 8.3% below the New Jersey state average.
Optometrist Pay in Paterson: What to Expect (2026)
Paterson offers a median optometrist salary of $138,149, which is $12,559 below the New Jersey state average of $150,708. Compared to the national median of $125,590, Paterson pays above average for this role.
Paterson's cost of living is 105% 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 Paterson spans from $85,800 at the 10th percentile to $211,200 at the 90th percentile — a $125,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $90,200, while senior optometrists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $195,800. With a population of 159,732, Paterson is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Optometrist Salary in Paterson by Experience
In Paterson, an entry-level optometrist earns around $90,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $195,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Paterson, NJ
| Percentile | Paterson |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $85,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $110,000 |
| Median (50th) | $138,149 |
| 75th Percentile | $173,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $211,200 |
Optometrist Salary in Other New Jersey Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Paterson
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Paterson and the surrounding New Jersey 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 Paterson may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Optometrist Jobs in Paterson
Browse open optometrist positions in Paterson, NJ: