Binghamton vs Buffalo: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Binghamton, NY and Buffalo, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Binghamton, NY | Buffalo, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $164,450 | $170,543▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $79.06 | $81.99▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $95,381 | $109,807▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $138,315▲ | $129,400 |
| 75th Percentile | $193,296▲ | $174,064 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $230,828▲ | $175,938 |
| Total Employed | 13 | 160▲ |
Verdict
Buffalo, NY offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Binghamton.
The salary gap between Binghamton and Buffalo is $6,093 (3.71%). Buffalo's median is +21.29% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Binghamton spans $135,447,Buffalo spans $66,131. Binghamton 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, Buffalo ($177,938 effective) pays 25.41% more than Binghamton ($141,890 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Binghamton if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($230,828)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Buffalo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($170,543/year)
- ✓Larger job market (160 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $177,938)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Binghamton grew 30.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 36.3% growth in Buffalo over the same period.
Binghamton, NY
$122,270 (2024) → $159,722 (2025)
Buffalo, NY
$121,560 (2019) → $165,640 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Binghamton, NY
Buffalo, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Binghamton or Buffalo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Binghamton and Buffalo?
Should I relocate from Binghamton to Buffalo as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Binghamton vs Buffalo?
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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