Aspen Hill vs Germantown: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Aspen Hill, MD and Germantown, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aspen Hill, MD | Germantown, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $155,823▲ | $154,703 |
| Hourly Rate | $74.91▲ | $74.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $90,377▲ | $89,728 |
| 25th Percentile | $123,918▲ | $121,661 |
| 75th Percentile | $186,745 | $187,422▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $226,781 | $228,517▲ |
| Total Employed | 8 | 22▲ |
Verdict
Aspen Hill and Germantown are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Aspen Hill and Germantown is $1,120 (0.72%). 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,Germantown spans $138,789. Germantown 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, Aspen Hill ($142,565 effective) pays 0.72% more than Germantown ($141,540 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 purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,565)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Germantown if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($228,517)
- ✓Larger job market (22 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 -5.8% growth in Germantown over the same period.
Aspen Hill, MD
$160,685 (2024) → $151,343 (2025)
Germantown, MD
$159,530 (2024) → $150,255 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aspen Hill, MD
Germantown, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Aspen Hill or Germantown?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aspen Hill and Germantown?
Should I relocate from Aspen Hill to Germantown as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Aspen Hill vs Germantown?
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