Alpharetta vs Atlanta: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Alpharetta, GA and Atlanta, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Alpharetta, GA | Atlanta, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $135,613▲ | $132,643 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.19▲ | $63.77 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,655▲ | $52,540 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,234▲ | $100,520 |
| 75th Percentile | $162,016 | $166,095▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $196,000▲ | $195,222 |
| Total Employed | 13 | 450▲ |
Verdict
Alpharetta, GA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Atlanta.
The salary gap between Alpharetta and Atlanta is $2,970 (2.24%). Alpharetta's median is -3.56% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Alpharetta spans $117,345,Atlanta spans $142,682. Atlanta 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, Alpharetta ($145,664 effective) pays 9.88% more than Atlanta ($132,566 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Alpharetta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($135,613/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($196,000)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $145,664)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Atlanta if…
- ✓Larger job market (450 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Alpharetta grew 7.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 23.7% growth in Atlanta over the same period.
Alpharetta, GA
$122,259 (2024) → $131,714 (2025)
Atlanta, GA
$104,120 (2019) → $128,830 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Alpharetta, GA
Atlanta, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
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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