Healthcare North Carolina (NC) Rank #30 of 50

Optometrist Salary in North Carolina

The median optometrist salary in North Carolina is $115,543 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $125,590.

Median Salary
$115,543
vs National
$-10,047
State Rank
#30 of 50
Cost of Living
92%

Optometrist Salary in North Carolina by Experience

In North Carolina, an entry-level optometrist earns around $75,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $163,760 per year. The cost of living index in North Carolina is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$75,440
$-6,560 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$117,760
$-10,240 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$163,760
$-14,240 vs national

Salary Percentiles in North Carolina

Percentile NC Salary
10th Percentile $71,760
25th Percentile $92,000
Median (50th) $115,543
75th Percentile $145,360
90th Percentile $176,640

Optometrist Salary by City in North Carolina

The largest employment areas for optometrists in North Carolina include Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, and Greensboro. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Optometrist in North Carolina

Education

Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. North Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Eye ExaminationRefractionContact Lens FittingOcular DiseasePatient EducationDiagnostic Equipment

Job Outlook in North Carolina

Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). North Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.