Healthcare Durham, NC
Pop. 283,506
Optometrist Salary in Durham, North Carolina
The median optometrist salary in Durham, NC is $119,311 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 3.3% above the North Carolina state average.
City Median
$119,311
vs State Avg
+$3,768
vs National
$-6,279
Cost of Living
95%
Optometrist Salary in Durham by Experience
In Durham, an entry-level optometrist earns around $77,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $169,100 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$77,900
$-4,100 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$121,600
$-6,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$169,100
$-8,900 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Durham, NC
| Percentile | Durham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $74,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $95,000 |
| Median (50th) | $119,311 |
| 75th Percentile | $150,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $182,400 |
Optometrist Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Durham
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Durham and the surrounding North Carolina 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 Durham may vary based on local industry and population growth.