Charlotte vs Gastonia: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Charlotte, NC and Gastonia, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charlotte, NC | Gastonia, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $161,863▲ | $158,412 |
| Hourly Rate | $77.82▲ | $76.16 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,443 | $91,879▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $105,688 | $126,844▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $181,323 | $190,836▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $216,000 | $231,588▲ |
| Total Employed | 260▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Charlotte, NC offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Gastonia.
The salary gap between Charlotte and Gastonia is $3,451 (2.18%). Charlotte's median is +15.11% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Charlotte spans $175,557,Gastonia spans $139,709. Charlotte 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, Gastonia ($169,244 effective) pays 1.79% more than Charlotte ($166,273 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Charlotte if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($161,863/year)
- ✓Larger job market (260 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Gastonia if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($231,588)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $169,244)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Charlotte grew 28.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 30.5% growth in Gastonia over the same period.
Charlotte, NC
$122,600 (2019) → $157,210 (2025)
Gastonia, NC
$117,895 (2024) → $153,858 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charlotte, NC
Gastonia, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Charlotte or Gastonia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Charlotte and Gastonia?
Should I relocate from Charlotte to Gastonia as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Charlotte vs Gastonia?
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