Albuquerque vs Rio Rancho: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Albuquerque, NM and Rio Rancho, NM. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Albuquerque, NM | Rio Rancho, NM |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $170,718▲ | $136,624 |
| Hourly Rate | $82.07▲ | $65.69 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,948 | $79,242▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $128,206▲ | $106,761 |
| 75th Percentile | $190,239▲ | $167,551 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $215,413▲ | $206,495 |
| Total Employed | 70▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Albuquerque, NM offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Rio Rancho.
The salary gap between Albuquerque and Rio Rancho is $34,094 (24.95%). Albuquerque's median is +21.41% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Albuquerque spans $151,465,Rio Rancho spans $127,253. Albuquerque 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, Albuquerque ($178,676 effective) pays 23.46% more than Rio Rancho ($144,729 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Albuquerque if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($170,718/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($215,413)
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $178,676)
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Choose Rio Rancho if…
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Albuquerque grew 53.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in Rio Rancho over the same period.
Albuquerque, NM
$108,300 (2019) → $165,810 (2025)
Rio Rancho, NM
$124,369 (2024) → $132,696 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Albuquerque, NM
Rio Rancho, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Albuquerque or Rio Rancho?
What is the hourly rate difference between Albuquerque and Rio Rancho?
Should I relocate from Albuquerque to Rio Rancho as a optometrist?
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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