Ashburn vs Richmond: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Ashburn, VA and Richmond, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ashburn, VA | Richmond, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $142,069▲ | $134,960 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.30▲ | $64.89 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,400▲ | $65,894 |
| 25th Percentile | $115,504 | $123,398▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $172,785▲ | $162,543 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $210,969▲ | $197,446 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 180▲ |
Verdict
Ashburn, VA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Richmond.
The salary gap between Ashburn and Richmond is $7,109 (5.27%). Ashburn's median is +1.04% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ashburn spans $128,569,Richmond spans $131,552. Richmond 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, Richmond ($137,914 effective) pays 0.18% more than Ashburn ($137,664 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ashburn if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($142,069/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($210,969)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Larger job market (180 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $137,914)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Ashburn grew 1.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 24.8% growth in Richmond over the same period.
Ashburn, VA
$136,399 (2024) → $137,985 (2025)
Richmond, VA
$105,020 (2019) → $131,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ashburn, VA
Richmond, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Ashburn or Richmond?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ashburn and Richmond?
Should I relocate from Ashburn to Richmond as a optometrist?
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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