Atlanta vs Athens: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Atlanta, GA and Athens, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlanta, GA | Athens, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,643 | $138,223▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $63.77 | $66.45▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,540 | $80,169▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $100,520 | $108,063▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $166,095 | $169,565▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $195,222 | $209,002▲ |
| Total Employed | 450▲ | 31 |
Verdict
Athens, GA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Atlanta.
The salary gap between Atlanta and Athens is $5,580 (4.21%). 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 Atlanta spans $142,682,Athens spans $128,833. Atlanta 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 11.99% more than Atlanta ($132,566 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Atlanta if…
- ✓Larger job market (450 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
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
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Atlanta grew 23.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 6.5% growth in Athens over the same period.
Atlanta, GA
$104,120 (2019) → $128,830 (2025)
Athens, GA
$126,000 (2021) → $134,249 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlanta, GA
Athens, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Atlanta or Athens?
What is the hourly rate difference between Atlanta and Athens?
Should I relocate from Atlanta to Athens as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Atlanta vs Athens?
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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