Optometrist Salary in South Carolina
The median optometrist salary in South Carolina is $111,775 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in South Carolina (2026)
South Carolina ranks #41 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Optometrist salaries in South Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $111,775 per year, optometrists in South Carolina earn $13,815 less than the national median of $125,590.
A key advantage of working in South Carolina is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $111,775 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $125,590 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Carolina is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $69,420, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $170,880 — a $101,460 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Carolina for this role is Mount Pleasant, 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 South Carolina by Experience
In South Carolina, an entry-level optometrist earns around $72,980, while experienced professionals earn up to $158,420 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $111,775+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in South Carolina
| Percentile | SC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $69,420 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,000 |
| Median (50th) | $111,775 |
| 75th Percentile | $140,620 |
| 90th Percentile | $170,880 |
Optometrist Salary by City in South Carolina
The largest employment areas for optometrists in South Carolina include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and North Charleston. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Optometrist in South Carolina
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Carolina
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). South Carolina'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 $46,645 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Optometrist Roles in South Carolina?
Get matched with recruiters hiring optometrists in South Carolina at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: