Bethlehem vs Philadelphia: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Bethlehem, PA and Philadelphia, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bethlehem, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $158,878▲ | $158,538 |
| Hourly Rate | $76.39▲ | $76.22 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $92,149 | $94,291▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $126,393 | $126,620▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $190,451▲ | $175,917 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $231,303▲ | $201,441 |
| Total Employed | 14 | 890▲ |
Verdict
Bethlehem, PA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Philadelphia.
The salary gap between Bethlehem and Philadelphia is $340 (0.21%). Bethlehem's median is +12.99% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bethlehem spans $139,154,Philadelphia spans $107,150. Bethlehem 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, Bethlehem ($163,119 effective) pays 5.52% more than Philadelphia ($154,590 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bethlehem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($158,878/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($231,303)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $163,119)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Philadelphia if…
- ✓Larger job market (890 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Bethlehem grew 15.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.4% growth in Philadelphia over the same period.
Bethlehem, PA
$133,346 (2024) → $154,310 (2025)
Philadelphia, PA
$134,640 (2019) → $153,980 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bethlehem, PA
Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Bethlehem or Philadelphia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bethlehem and Philadelphia?
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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