Bellevue vs Tacoma: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Bellevue, WA and Tacoma, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bellevue, WA | Tacoma, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $174,471▲ | $169,895 |
| Hourly Rate | $83.88▲ | $81.68 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $101,193▲ | $98,539 |
| 25th Percentile | $134,412▲ | $133,683 |
| 75th Percentile | $212,003 | $214,437▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $270,430▲ | $263,338 |
| Total Employed | 26 | 56▲ |
Verdict
Bellevue, WA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tacoma.
The salary gap between Bellevue and Tacoma is $4,576 (2.69%). Bellevue's median is +24.08% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bellevue spans $169,237,Tacoma spans $164,799. Bellevue 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, Bellevue ($162,450 effective) pays 2.69% more than Tacoma ($158,189 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bellevue if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($174,471/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($270,430)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $162,450)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Tacoma if…
- ✓Larger job market (56 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Bellevue grew 4.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 2.5% growth in Tacoma over the same period.
Bellevue, WA
$162,115 (2024) → $169,455 (2025)
Tacoma, WA
$160,990 (2024) → $165,011 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bellevue, WA
Tacoma, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Bellevue or Tacoma?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bellevue and Tacoma?
Should I relocate from Bellevue to Tacoma 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