Barre vs Burlington: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Barre, VT and Burlington, VT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Barre, VT | Burlington, VT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,398 | $147,954▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $66.06 | $71.14▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,691 | $104,618▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $109,338 | $132,849▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $159,609 | $196,468▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $187,244 | $257,421▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 30▲ |
Verdict
Burlington, VT offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Barre.
The salary gap between Barre and Burlington is $10,556 (7.68%). Burlington's median is +5.22% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Barre spans $107,553,Burlington spans $152,803. Burlington 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, Burlington ($146,563 effective) pays 10.40% more than Barre ($132,752 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Barre if…
- ✓You prefer the Vermont area and lifestyle
Choose Burlington if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($147,954/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($257,421)
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $146,563)
- ✓You prefer the Vermont area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Barre grew 5.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 42.5% growth in Burlington over the same period.
Barre, VT
$127,028 (2024) → $133,448 (2025)
Burlington, VT
$100,840 (2021) → $143,700 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Burlington, VT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Barre or Burlington?
What is the hourly rate difference between Barre and Burlington?
Should I relocate from Barre to Burlington as a optometrist?
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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