Charleston vs Sumter: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Charleston, SC and Sumter, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charleston, SC | Sumter, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $159,238▲ | $122,530 |
| Hourly Rate | $76.56▲ | $58.90 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,642 | $71,086▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $99,686 | $100,083▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $175,948▲ | $148,379 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $184,319▲ | $179,138 |
| Total Employed | 70▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Charleston, SC offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Sumter.
The salary gap between Charleston and Sumter is $36,708 (29.96%). Charleston's median is +13.25% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Charleston spans $130,677,Sumter spans $108,052. Charleston 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, Charleston ($157,721 effective) pays 17.78% more than Sumter ($133,913 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Charleston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($159,238/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($184,319)
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $157,721)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Sumter if…
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Charleston grew 29.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 11.9% growth in Sumter over the same period.
Charleston, SC
$119,910 (2019) → $154,660 (2025)
Sumter, SC
$106,310 (2024) → $119,007 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charleston, SC
Sumter, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Charleston or Sumter?
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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