Allentown vs State College: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Allentown, PA and State College, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Allentown, PA | State College, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $155,099▲ | $131,789 |
| Hourly Rate | $74.56▲ | $63.36 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $92,582▲ | $76,735 |
| 25th Percentile | $134,332▲ | $107,852 |
| 75th Percentile | $170,183▲ | $159,791 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $194,100▲ | $193,002 |
| Total Employed | 100▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Allentown, PA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to State College.
The salary gap between Allentown and State College is $23,310 (17.69%). Allentown's median is +10.30% 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,State College spans $116,267. State College 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, Allentown ($155,149 effective) pays 14.66% more than State College ($135,307 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Allentown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($155,099/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($194,100)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $155,149)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose State College if…
- ✓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 19.8% growth in State College over the same period.
Allentown, PA
$135,030 (2019) → $150,640 (2025)
State College, PA
$106,840 (2019) → $128,000 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Allentown, PA
State College, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Allentown or State College?
What is the hourly rate difference between Allentown and State College?
Should I relocate from Allentown to State College as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Allentown vs State College?
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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