Healthcare Chattanooga, TN
Pop. 181,099
Optometrist Salary in Chattanooga, Tennessee
The median optometrist salary in Chattanooga, TN is $113,031 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
City Median
$113,031
vs State Avg
$-1,256
vs National
$-12,559
Cost of Living
88%
Optometrist Salary in Chattanooga by Experience
In Chattanooga, 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 88% 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 Chattanooga, TN
| Percentile | Chattanooga |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $70,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,000 |
| Median (50th) | $113,031 |
| 75th Percentile | $142,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $172,800 |
Optometrist Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Chattanooga
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Chattanooga and the surrounding Tennessee 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 Chattanooga may vary based on local industry and population growth.