Bend vs Salem: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Bend, OR and Salem, OR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bend, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $133,652 | $138,574▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $64.26 | $66.63▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $89,699 | $108,252▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $107,315 | $134,250▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $137,884 | $149,086▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $166,672▲ | $163,820 |
| Total Employed | 40 | 60▲ |
Verdict
Salem, OR offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Bend.
The salary gap between Bend and Salem is $4,922 (3.68%). Salem's median is -1.45% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bend spans $76,973,Salem spans $55,568. Bend 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, Salem ($133,695 effective) pays 3.64% more than Bend ($128,999 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bend if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($166,672)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,574/year)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $133,695)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Bend grew 6.0% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 21.4% growth in Salem over the same period.
Bend, OR
$122,480 (2021) → $129,810 (2025)
Salem, OR
$110,870 (2019) → $134,590 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Bend or Salem?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bend and Salem?
Should I relocate from Bend to Salem as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Bend vs Salem?
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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