Allentown vs Bethlehem: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Allentown, PA and Bethlehem, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Allentown, PA | Bethlehem, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $155,099 | $158,878▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $74.56 | $76.39▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $92,582▲ | $92,149 |
| 25th Percentile | $134,332▲ | $126,393 |
| 75th Percentile | $170,183 | $190,451▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $194,100 | $231,303▲ |
| Total Employed | 100▲ | 14 |
Verdict
Bethlehem, PA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Allentown.
The salary gap between Allentown and Bethlehem is $3,779 (2.44%). Bethlehem's median is +12.99% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Allentown spans $101,518,Bethlehem spans $139,154. Bethlehem has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Bethlehem ($163,119 effective) pays 5.14% more than Allentown ($155,149 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Allentown if…
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Bethlehem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($158,878/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($231,303)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $163,119)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Allentown grew 11.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.7% growth in Bethlehem over the same period.
Allentown, PA
$135,030 (2019) → $150,640 (2025)
Bethlehem, PA
$133,346 (2024) → $154,310 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Allentown, PA
Bethlehem, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Allentown or Bethlehem?
What is the hourly rate difference between Allentown and Bethlehem?
Should I relocate from Allentown to Bethlehem as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Allentown vs Bethlehem?
Related Comparisons
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