Optometrist Salary in Pennsylvania
The median optometrist salary in Pennsylvania is $124,334 per year, which is 1% below the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)
Pennsylvania ranks #21 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for optometrist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $124,334 per year, optometrists in Pennsylvania earn $1,256 less than the national median of $125,590.
Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning optometrist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $77,220, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $190,080 — a $112,860 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Pennsylvania for this role is Philadelphia, where the median reaches $131,870.
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for optometrists across the country.
Optometrist Salary in Pennsylvania by Experience
In Pennsylvania, an entry-level optometrist earns around $81,180, while experienced professionals earn up to $176,220 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | PA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $77,220 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,000 |
| Median (50th) | $124,334 |
| 75th Percentile | $156,420 |
| 90th Percentile | $190,080 |
Optometrist Salary by City in Pennsylvania
The largest employment areas for optometrists in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Optometrist in Pennsylvania
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Pennsylvania
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Pennsylvania's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Optometrists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $51,886 over your career trajectory.
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