Apple Valley vs San Francisco: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Apple Valley, CA and San Francisco, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Apple Valley, CA | San Francisco, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $138,423 | $146,800▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $66.55 | $70.58▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,285 | $110,970▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $114,957 | $132,715▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $165,705 | $178,388▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $200,437 | $227,902▲ |
| Total Employed | 19 | 1,180▲ |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Apple Valley.
The salary gap between Apple Valley and San Francisco is $8,377 (6.05%). San Francisco's median is +4.40% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Apple Valley spans $120,152,San Francisco spans $116,932. Apple Valley 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, San Francisco ($126,975 effective) pays 3.75% more than Apple Valley ($122,390 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Apple Valley if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Francisco if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($146,800/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($227,902)
- ✓Larger job market (1,180 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $126,975)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Apple Valley grew -25.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.6% growth in San Francisco over the same period.
Apple Valley, CA
$179,774 (2024) → $134,443 (2025)
San Francisco, CA
$122,310 (2019) → $142,580 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Apple Valley, CA
San Francisco, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Apple Valley or San Francisco?
What is the hourly rate difference between Apple Valley and San Francisco?
Should I relocate from Apple Valley to San Francisco as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Apple Valley vs San Francisco?
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