Boise vs Meridian: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Boise, ID and Meridian, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Boise, ID | Meridian, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $138,901▲ | $134,505 |
| Hourly Rate | $66.78▲ | $64.67 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,563▲ | $78,013 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,910 | $109,056▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $170,713▲ | $160,936 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $211,934▲ | $204,718 |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Boise, ID offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Meridian.
The salary gap between Boise and Meridian is $4,396 (3.27%). 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,Meridian spans $126,705. 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 3.27% more than Meridian ($141,139 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 Meridian 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 Meridian over the same period.
Boise, ID
$128,418 (2024) → $134,908 (2025)
Meridian, ID
$124,353 (2024) → $130,638 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Meridian, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Boise or Meridian?
What is the hourly rate difference between Boise and Meridian?
Should I relocate from Boise to Meridian as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Boise vs Meridian?
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