Chandler vs Tucson: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Chandler, AZ and Tucson, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chandler, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $120,228 | $162,316▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $57.80 | $78.03▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,733 | $100,643▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $90,896 | $104,463▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $148,000 | $164,252▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $183,686▲ | $174,074 |
| Total Employed | 49 | 80▲ |
Verdict
Tucson, AZ offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Chandler.
The salary gap between Chandler and Tucson is $42,088 (35.01%). Tucson's median is +15.44% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chandler spans $113,953,Tucson spans $73,431. Chandler 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, Tucson ($167,516 effective) pays 37.24% more than Chandler ($122,059 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chandler if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($183,686)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($162,316/year)
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $167,516)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Chandler grew -15.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.5% growth in Tucson over the same period.
Chandler, AZ
$137,923 (2024) → $116,772 (2025)
Tucson, AZ
$135,340 (2019) → $157,650 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chandler, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Chandler or Tucson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chandler and Tucson?
Should I relocate from Chandler to Tucson as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Chandler vs Tucson?
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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