Optometrist Salary in Norfolk, Virginia
The median optometrist salary in Norfolk, VA is $123,078 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 7.5% below the Virginia state average.
Optometrist Pay in Norfolk: What to Expect (2026)
Norfolk offers a median optometrist salary of $123,078, which is $10,047 below the Virginia state average of $133,125. Compared to the national median of $125,590, Norfolk pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Norfolk's cost of living is 96% 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 Norfolk spans from $76,440 at the 10th percentile to $188,160 at the 90th percentile — a $111,720 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $80,360, while senior optometrists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $174,440. With a population of 238,005, Norfolk is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Optometrist Salary in Norfolk by Experience
In Norfolk, an entry-level optometrist earns around $80,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $174,440 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Norfolk, VA
| Percentile | Norfolk |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $76,440 |
| 25th Percentile | $98,000 |
| Median (50th) | $123,078 |
| 75th Percentile | $154,840 |
| 90th Percentile | $188,160 |
Optometrist Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Norfolk
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Norfolk 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 Norfolk may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Optometrist Jobs in Norfolk
Browse open optometrist positions in Norfolk, VA: