Optometrist Salary in Charleston, West Virginia
The median optometrist salary in Charleston, WV is $108,007 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 4.9% above the West Virginia state average.
Optometrist Pay in Charleston: What to Expect (2026)
Charleston offers a median optometrist salary of $108,007, which is $5,023 above the West Virginia state average of $102,984. Compared to the national median of $125,590, Charleston pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Charleston's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $108,007 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $122,735 in an average-cost city. This makes Charleston an attractive option for optometrists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for optometrists in Charleston spans from $67,080 at the 10th percentile to $165,120 at the 90th percentile — a $98,040 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $70,520, while senior optometrists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $153,080. Charleston is a smaller market (pop. 48,006), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Optometrist Salary in Charleston by Experience
In Charleston, an entry-level optometrist earns around $70,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $153,080 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Charleston, WV
| Percentile | Charleston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $67,080 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,000 |
| Median (50th) | $108,007 |
| 75th Percentile | $135,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $165,120 |
Optometrist Salary in Other West Virginia Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Charleston
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Charleston and the surrounding West 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 Charleston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Optometrist Jobs in Charleston
Browse open optometrist positions in Charleston, WV: