Optometrist Salary in Buffalo, New York
The median optometrist salary in Buffalo, NY is $121,822 per year, which is 3% below the national median and 23.6% below the New York state average.
Optometrist Pay in Buffalo: What to Expect (2026)
Buffalo offers a median optometrist salary of $121,822, which is $37,677 below the New York state average of $159,499. Compared to the national median of $125,590, Buffalo pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Buffalo's cost of living is 92% 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 Buffalo spans from $75,660 at the 10th percentile to $186,240 at the 90th percentile — a $110,580 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $79,540, while senior optometrists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $172,660. With a population of 278,349, Buffalo is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Optometrist Salary in Buffalo by Experience
In Buffalo, an entry-level optometrist earns around $79,540, while experienced professionals earn up to $172,660 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Buffalo, NY
| Percentile | Buffalo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $75,660 |
| 25th Percentile | $97,000 |
| Median (50th) | $121,822 |
| 75th Percentile | $153,260 |
| 90th Percentile | $186,240 |
Optometrist Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Buffalo
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Buffalo and the surrounding New York 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 Buffalo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Optometrist Jobs in Buffalo
Browse open optometrist positions in Buffalo, NY: