Chambersburg vs Pittsburgh: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Chambersburg, PA and Pittsburgh, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chambersburg, PA | Pittsburgh, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,150 | $133,745▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $63.54 | $64.30▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,648 | $97,565▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $107,269 | $121,081▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $155,297 | $164,540▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $183,611▲ | $169,524 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 340▲ |
Verdict
Pittsburgh, PA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Chambersburg.
The salary gap between Chambersburg and Pittsburgh is $1,595 (1.21%). Pittsburgh's median is -4.88% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chambersburg spans $106,963,Pittsburgh spans $71,959. Chambersburg 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, Pittsburgh ($141,273 effective) pays 4.12% more than Chambersburg ($135,678 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chambersburg if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($183,611)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Pittsburgh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($133,745/year)
- ✓Larger job market (340 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $141,273)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Chambersburg grew -6.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.7% growth in Pittsburgh over the same period.
Chambersburg, PA
$136,910 (2019) → $128,351 (2025)
Pittsburgh, PA
$114,280 (2019) → $129,900 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chambersburg, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Chambersburg or Pittsburgh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chambersburg and Pittsburgh?
Should I relocate from Chambersburg to Pittsburgh as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Chambersburg vs Pittsburgh?
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