Aspen Hill vs Baltimore: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Aspen Hill, MD and Baltimore, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aspen Hill, MD | Baltimore, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $155,823▲ | $148,540 |
| Hourly Rate | $74.91▲ | $71.41 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $90,377▲ | $50,718 |
| 25th Percentile | $123,918▲ | $66,636 |
| 75th Percentile | $186,745▲ | $174,239 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $226,781▲ | $178,368 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 330▲ |
Verdict
Aspen Hill, MD offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Baltimore.
The salary gap between Aspen Hill and Baltimore is $7,283 (4.90%). Aspen Hill's median is +10.82% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aspen Hill spans $136,404,Baltimore spans $127,650. Aspen Hill 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, Aspen Hill ($142,565 effective) pays 0.28% more than Baltimore ($142,161 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aspen Hill if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($155,823/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($226,781)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,565)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Baltimore if…
- ✓Larger job market (330 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Aspen Hill grew -5.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 45.2% growth in Baltimore over the same period.
Aspen Hill, MD
$160,685 (2024) → $151,343 (2025)
Baltimore, MD
$99,360 (2019) → $144,270 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aspen Hill, MD
Baltimore, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Aspen Hill or Baltimore?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aspen Hill and Baltimore?
Should I relocate from Aspen Hill to Baltimore as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Aspen Hill vs Baltimore?
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