Akron vs Cleveland: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Akron, OH and Cleveland, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Akron, OH | Cleveland, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $135,094 | $139,902▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $64.95 | $67.26▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,914 | $67,954▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $82,244 | $95,619▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $160,247 | $162,728▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $176,165▲ | $174,229 |
| Total Employed | 70 | 250▲ |
Verdict
Cleveland, OH offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Akron.
The salary gap between Akron and Cleveland is $4,808 (3.56%). Cleveland's median is -0.50% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Akron spans $109,251,Cleveland spans $106,275. Akron has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Cleveland ($148,954 effective) pays 2.95% more than Akron ($144,687 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Akron if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($176,165)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Cleveland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($139,902/year)
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $148,954)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Akron grew 5.4% from 2020 to 2025, compared to 21.3% growth in Cleveland over the same period.
Akron, OH
$124,510 (2020) → $131,210 (2025)
Cleveland, OH
$112,060 (2019) → $135,880 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cleveland, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Akron or Cleveland?
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Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov