Boston vs Worcester: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Boston, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Boston, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $159,557▲ | $154,028 |
| Hourly Rate | $76.72▲ | $74.05 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $98,615▲ | $93,982 |
| 25th Percentile | $130,286 | $134,116▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $171,861▲ | $169,596 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $204,952▲ | $193,060 |
| Total Employed | 710▲ | 90 |
Verdict
Boston, MA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Worcester.
The salary gap between Boston and Worcester is $5,529 (3.59%). Boston's median is +13.47% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Boston spans $106,337,Worcester spans $99,078. Boston 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, Worcester ($150,238 effective) pays 1.94% more than Boston ($147,375 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Boston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($159,557/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($204,952)
- ✓Larger job market (710 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $150,238)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Boston grew 24.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 32.1% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Boston, MA
$124,200 (2019) → $154,970 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$113,250 (2019) → $149,600 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Boston, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Boston or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Boston and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Boston to Worcester as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Boston vs Worcester?
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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