Carrboro vs Raleigh: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Carrboro, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Carrboro, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $158,460 | $168,123▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $76.18 | $80.83▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $91,906 | $103,207▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $135,576▲ | $129,452 |
| 75th Percentile | $183,529 | $205,961▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $215,828 | $220,190▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 240▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Carrboro.
The salary gap between Carrboro and Raleigh is $9,663 (6.10%). Raleigh's median is +19.57% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Carrboro spans $123,922,Raleigh spans $116,983. Carrboro 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, Raleigh ($171,280 effective) pays 1.17% more than Carrboro ($169,295 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Carrboro if…
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($168,123/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($220,190)
- ✓Larger job market (240 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $171,280)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Carrboro grew 34.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 61.2% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Carrboro, NC
$114,686 (2024) → $153,904 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$101,270 (2019) → $163,290 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Carrboro, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Carrboro or Raleigh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Carrboro and Raleigh?
Should I relocate from Carrboro to Raleigh as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Carrboro vs Raleigh?
Related Comparisons
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