Optometrist Salary in Chesapeake, Virginia
The median optometrist salary in Chesapeake, VA is $125,590 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 5.7% below the Virginia state average.
Optometrist Pay in Chesapeake: What to Expect (2026)
Chesapeake offers a median optometrist salary of $125,590, which is $7,535 below the Virginia state average of $133,125. Compared to the national median of $125,590, Chesapeake pays above average for this role.
Chesapeake's cost of living is 98% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for optometrists in Chesapeake spans from $78,000 at the 10th percentile to $192,000 at the 90th percentile — a $114,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $82,000, while senior optometrists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $178,000. With a population of 249,422, Chesapeake is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Optometrist Salary in Chesapeake by Experience
In Chesapeake, an entry-level optometrist earns around $82,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $178,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chesapeake, VA
| Percentile | Chesapeake |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $78,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $100,000 |
| Median (50th) | $125,590 |
| 75th Percentile | $158,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $192,000 |
Optometrist Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Chesapeake
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Chesapeake and the surrounding Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Chesapeake may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Optometrist Jobs in Chesapeake
Browse open optometrist positions in Chesapeake, VA: