Baton Rouge vs Ruston: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Baton Rouge, LA and Ruston, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Baton Rouge, LA | Ruston, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $118,620 | $122,100▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $57.03 | $58.70▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,353 | $71,268▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $105,349▲ | $99,981 |
| 75th Percentile | $134,960 | $144,305▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $185,750▲ | $170,969 |
| Total Employed | 40▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Baton Rouge and Ruston are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Baton Rouge and Ruston is $3,480 (2.93%). Ruston's median is -13.17% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Baton Rouge spans $147,397,Ruston spans $99,701. Baton Rouge 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, Ruston ($135,216 effective) pays 3.48% more than Baton Rouge ($130,668 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Baton Rouge if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($185,750)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Ruston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($122,100/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $135,216)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Baton Rouge grew 17.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 11.9% growth in Ruston over the same period.
Baton Rouge, LA
$98,350 (2019) → $115,210 (2025)
Ruston, LA
$105,938 (2024) → $118,590 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Baton Rouge, LA
Ruston, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Baton Rouge or Ruston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Baton Rouge and Ruston?
Should I relocate from Baton Rouge to Ruston as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Baton Rouge vs Ruston?
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