Bridgeport vs Danbury: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Bridgeport, CT and Danbury, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bridgeport, CT | Danbury, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $155,708▲ | $147,061 |
| Hourly Rate | $74.86▲ | $70.70 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $90,311▲ | $85,295 |
| 25th Percentile | $121,126▲ | $117,825 |
| 75th Percentile | $186,955▲ | $177,119 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $228,605▲ | $215,487 |
| Total Employed | 21▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Bridgeport, CT offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Danbury.
The salary gap between Bridgeport and Danbury is $8,647 (5.88%). Bridgeport's median is +10.74% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bridgeport spans $138,294,Danbury spans $130,192. Bridgeport 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, Bridgeport ($144,308 effective) pays 5.88% more than Danbury ($136,294 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bridgeport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($155,708/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($228,605)
- ✓Larger job market (21 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $144,308)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Danbury if…
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Bridgeport grew 122.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -5.8% growth in Danbury over the same period.
Bridgeport, CT
$68,010 (2019) → $151,232 (2025)
Danbury, CT
$151,650 (2024) → $142,833 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bridgeport, CT
Danbury, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Bridgeport or Danbury?
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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