Optometrists

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the median annual salary of optometrists was $131,860 in May 2023. The lowest 10 percent earned an annual wage of less than $64,980, while the highest 10 percent earned an annual wage of $204,100 or more. Optometrists who accept salaried positions with clinics and government agencies generally have higher earnings in the first few years than do private practitioners. This situation, however, is often reversed after the private practitioners have had an opportunity to establish themselves.

Salaried optometrists usually receive benefits such as health and dental insurance, paid vacations, and the opportunity to participate in retirement plans. Self-employed optometrists must provide their own benefits.