Healthcare Columbia, SC
Pop. 131,674
Optometrist Salary in Columbia, South Carolina
The median optometrist salary in Columbia, SC is $113,031 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% above the South Carolina state average.
City Median
$113,031
vs State Avg
+$1,256
vs National
$-12,559
Cost of Living
90%
Optometrist Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level optometrist earns around $73,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $160,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$73,800
$-8,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$115,200
$-12,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$160,200
$-17,800 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, SC
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $70,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,000 |
| Median (50th) | $113,031 |
| 75th Percentile | $142,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $172,800 |
Optometrist Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Columbia
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Columbia and the surrounding South 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 Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.