Optometrist Salary in Rhode Island
The median optometrist salary in Rhode Island is $135,637 per year, which is 8.0% above the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #12 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for optometrist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $135,637 per year, optometrists in Rhode Island earn $10,047 more than the national median of $125,590.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning optometrist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $84,240, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $207,360 — a $123,120 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $139,405.
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 Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level optometrist earns around $88,560, while experienced professionals earn up to $192,240 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $84,240 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,000 |
| Median (50th) | $135,637 |
| 75th Percentile | $170,640 |
| 90th Percentile | $207,360 |
Optometrist Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for optometrists in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Optometrist in Rhode Island
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Rhode Island'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 $56,603 over your career trajectory.
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