Bethesda vs Columbia: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Bethesda, MD and Columbia, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bethesda, MD | Columbia, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $148,446 | $151,220▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $71.37 | $72.70▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,098 | $87,708▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $118,322▲ | $117,980 |
| 75th Percentile | $181,424 | $185,496▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $221,911 | $227,840▲ |
| Total Employed | 18 | 24▲ |
Verdict
Columbia, MD offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Bethesda.
The salary gap between Bethesda and Columbia is $2,774 (1.87%). Columbia's median is +7.54% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bethesda spans $135,813,Columbia spans $140,132. Columbia 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, Columbia ($138,353 effective) pays 1.87% more than Bethesda ($135,815 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bethesda if…
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($151,220/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($227,840)
- ✓Larger job market (24 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $138,353)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Bethesda grew -5.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -9.9% growth in Columbia over the same period.
Bethesda, MD
$153,078 (2024) → $144,178 (2025)
Columbia, MD
$162,958 (2024) → $146,873 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bethesda, MD
Columbia, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Bethesda or Columbia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bethesda and Columbia?
Should I relocate from Bethesda to Columbia as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Bethesda vs Columbia?
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