Central Falls vs Providence: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Central Falls, RI and Providence, RI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Central Falls, RI | Providence, RI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $130,388 | $144,051▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $62.68 | $69.25▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,006 | $79,495▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $108,149 | $125,961▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $152,630 | $176,587▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $180,201 | $222,023▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 310▲ |
Verdict
Providence, RI offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Central Falls.
The salary gap between Central Falls and Providence is $13,663 (10.48%). Providence's median is +2.45% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Central Falls spans $102,195,Providence spans $142,528. Providence has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Providence ($141,541 effective) pays 9.10% more than Central Falls ($129,739 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Central Falls if…
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Choose Providence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($144,051/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($222,023)
- ✓Larger job market (310 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $141,541)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Central Falls grew -1.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 37.6% growth in Providence over the same period.
Central Falls, RI
$127,965 (2024) → $126,639 (2025)
Providence, RI
$101,670 (2019) → $139,910 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Central Falls, RI
Providence, RI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Central Falls or Providence?
What is the hourly rate difference between Central Falls and Providence?
Should I relocate from Central Falls to Providence as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Central Falls vs Providence?
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