Boise vs Caldwell: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Boise, ID and Caldwell, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Boise, ID | Caldwell, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $138,901▲ | $135,057 |
| Hourly Rate | $66.78▲ | $64.93 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,563▲ | $78,333 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,910 | $111,565▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $170,713▲ | $160,872 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $211,934▲ | $194,916 |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Boise, ID offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Caldwell.
The salary gap between Boise and Caldwell is $3,844 (2.85%). Boise's median is -1.22% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Boise spans $131,371,Caldwell spans $116,583. Boise 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, Boise ($145,751 effective) pays 2.85% more than Caldwell ($141,718 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Boise if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,901/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($211,934)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $145,751)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Caldwell if…
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Boise grew 5.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 5.1% growth in Caldwell over the same period.
Boise, ID
$128,418 (2024) → $134,908 (2025)
Caldwell, ID
$124,864 (2024) → $131,174 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Caldwell, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Boise or Caldwell?
What is the hourly rate difference between Boise and Caldwell?
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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