Atlanta vs Dalton: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Atlanta, GA and Dalton, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlanta, GA | Dalton, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,643▲ | $129,571 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.77▲ | $62.29 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,540 | $77,992▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $100,520 | $107,919▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $166,095▲ | $151,270 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $195,222▲ | $180,182 |
| Total Employed | 450▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Atlanta, GA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Dalton.
The salary gap between Atlanta and Dalton is $3,072 (2.37%). Atlanta's median is -5.67% 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,Dalton spans $102,190. 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, Dalton ($139,174 effective) pays 4.98% 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…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,643/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($195,222)
- ✓Larger job market (450 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Dalton if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $139,174)
- ✓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 7.7% growth in Dalton over the same period.
Atlanta, GA
$104,120 (2019) → $128,830 (2025)
Dalton, GA
$116,812 (2024) → $125,846 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlanta, GA
Dalton, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Atlanta or Dalton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Atlanta and Dalton?
Should I relocate from Atlanta to Dalton as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Atlanta vs Dalton?
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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