Birmingham vs Decatur: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Birmingham, AL and Decatur, AL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Birmingham, AL | Decatur, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $167,712▲ | $123,826 |
| Hourly Rate | $80.63▲ | $59.53 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,933▲ | $71,819 |
| 25th Percentile | $137,060▲ | $96,665 |
| 75th Percentile | $175,701▲ | $149,397 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $202,419▲ | $181,401 |
| Total Employed | 110▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Birmingham, AL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Decatur.
The salary gap between Birmingham and Decatur is $43,886 (35.44%). Birmingham's median is +19.27% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Birmingham spans $126,486,Decatur spans $109,582. Birmingham 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, Birmingham ($183,004 effective) pays 29.91% more than Decatur ($140,871 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Birmingham if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($167,712/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($202,419)
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $183,004)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Choose Decatur if…
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Birmingham grew 57.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.7% growth in Decatur over the same period.
Birmingham, AL
$103,340 (2019) → $162,890 (2025)
Decatur, AL
$103,913 (2024) → $120,266 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Birmingham, AL
Decatur, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Birmingham or Decatur?
What is the hourly rate difference between Birmingham and Decatur?
Should I relocate from Birmingham to Decatur as a optometrist?
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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