Apex vs Charlotte: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Apex, NC and Charlotte, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Apex, NC | Charlotte, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $169,258▲ | $161,863 |
| Hourly Rate | $81.37▲ | $77.82 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $98,169▲ | $40,443 |
| 25th Percentile | $139,590▲ | $105,688 |
| 75th Percentile | $201,384▲ | $181,323 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $243,896▲ | $216,000 |
| Total Employed | 16 | 260▲ |
Verdict
Apex, NC offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Charlotte.
The salary gap between Apex and Charlotte is $7,395 (4.57%). Apex's median is +20.37% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Apex spans $145,727,Charlotte spans $175,557. Charlotte 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, Apex ($180,831 effective) pays 8.76% more than Charlotte ($166,273 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Apex if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($169,258/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($243,896)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $180,831)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Charlotte if…
- ✓Larger job market (260 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Apex grew 34.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.2% growth in Charlotte over the same period.
Apex, NC
$122,501 (2024) → $164,392 (2025)
Charlotte, NC
$122,600 (2019) → $157,210 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charlotte, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
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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