Anderson vs Greenville: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Anderson, SC and Greenville, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Anderson, SC | Greenville, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $157,352▲ | $153,802 |
| Hourly Rate | $75.64▲ | $73.95 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $91,264▲ | $45,786 |
| 25th Percentile | $126,854▲ | $97,936 |
| 75th Percentile | $185,533▲ | $170,461 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $221,818▲ | $173,920 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 70▲ |
Verdict
Anderson, SC offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Greenville.
The salary gap between Anderson and Greenville is $3,550 (2.31%). Anderson's median is +11.91% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Anderson spans $130,554,Greenville spans $128,134. Anderson 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, Anderson ($171,969 effective) pays 4.28% more than Greenville ($164,917 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Anderson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($157,352/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($221,818)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $171,969)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Greenville if…
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Anderson grew 38.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 83.1% growth in Greenville over the same period.
Anderson, SC
$110,780 (2024) → $152,828 (2025)
Greenville, SC
$81,600 (2019) → $149,380 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Anderson, SC
Greenville, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Anderson or Greenville?
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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