Benton vs Fort Smith: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Benton, AR and Fort Smith, AR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Benton, AR | Fort Smith, AR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $119,706▲ | $112,432 |
| Hourly Rate | $57.55▲ | $54.05 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,430▲ | $59,676 |
| 25th Percentile | $94,591▲ | $75,943 |
| 75th Percentile | $141,871▲ | $131,624 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $169,939 | $171,881▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 40▲ |
Verdict
Benton and Fort Smith are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Benton and Fort Smith is $7,274 (6.47%). Benton's median is -14.87% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Benton spans $100,509,Fort Smith spans $112,205. Fort Smith 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, Benton ($137,751 effective) pays 5.23% more than Fort Smith ($130,905 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Benton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($119,706/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $137,751)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Choose Fort Smith if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($171,881)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Benton grew 18.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 158.8% growth in Fort Smith over the same period.
Benton, AR
$97,902 (2024) → $116,265 (2025)
Fort Smith, AR
$42,200 (2019) → $109,200 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Benton, AR
Fort Smith, AR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Benton or Fort Smith?
What is the hourly rate difference between Benton and Fort Smith?
Should I relocate from Benton to Fort Smith as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Benton vs Fort Smith?
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