Athens vs Augusta: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Athens, GA and Augusta, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Athens, GA | Augusta, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $138,223▲ | $134,250 |
| Hourly Rate | $66.45▲ | $64.55 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,169▲ | $57,864 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,063▲ | $101,529 |
| 75th Percentile | $169,565▲ | $167,444 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $209,002▲ | $175,022 |
| Total Employed | 31 | 70▲ |
Verdict
Athens, GA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Augusta.
The salary gap between Athens and Augusta is $3,973 (2.96%). Athens's median is -1.70% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Athens spans $128,833,Augusta spans $117,158. Athens 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, Athens ($148,467 effective) pays 1.64% more than Augusta ($146,078 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Athens if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,223/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($209,002)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $148,467)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Augusta if…
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Athens grew 6.5% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 11.2% growth in Augusta over the same period.
Athens, GA
$126,000 (2021) → $134,249 (2025)
Augusta, GA
$117,300 (2019) → $130,390 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Athens, GA
Augusta, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Athens or Augusta?
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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