Aspen Hill vs Hagerstown: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Aspen Hill, MD and Hagerstown, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aspen Hill, MD | Hagerstown, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $155,823▲ | $148,643 |
| Hourly Rate | $74.91▲ | $71.46 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $90,377▲ | $86,214 |
| 25th Percentile | $123,918▲ | $120,877 |
| 75th Percentile | $186,745▲ | $179,482 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $226,781▲ | $216,462 |
| Total Employed | 8▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Aspen Hill, MD offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hagerstown.
The salary gap between Aspen Hill and Hagerstown is $7,180 (4.83%). 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,Hagerstown spans $130,248. 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 4.83% more than Hagerstown ($135,995 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)
- ✓Larger job market (8 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,565)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Hagerstown if…
- ✓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 12.2% growth in Hagerstown over the same period.
Aspen Hill, MD
$160,685 (2024) → $151,343 (2025)
Hagerstown, MD
$128,700 (2019) → $144,370 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aspen Hill, MD
Hagerstown, MD
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