Chesapeake vs Radford: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Chesapeake, VA and Radford, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chesapeake, VA | Radford, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $150,045▲ | $138,789 |
| Hourly Rate | $72.13▲ | $66.73 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,026▲ | $80,497 |
| 25th Percentile | $121,676▲ | $118,155 |
| 75th Percentile | $189,987▲ | $160,191 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $232,569▲ | $188,138 |
| Total Employed | 63▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Chesapeake, VA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Radford.
The salary gap between Chesapeake and Radford is $11,256 (8.11%). Chesapeake's median is +6.71% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chesapeake spans $145,543,Radford spans $107,641. Chesapeake 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, Chesapeake ($145,392 effective) pays 8.11% more than Radford ($134,485 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chesapeake if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($150,045/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($232,569)
- ✓Larger job market (63 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $145,392)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Radford if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Chesapeake grew 1.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 1.2% growth in Radford over the same period.
Chesapeake, VA
$144,056 (2024) → $145,731 (2025)
Radford, VA
$133,250 (2024) → $134,799 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chesapeake, VA
Radford, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Chesapeake or Radford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chesapeake and Radford?
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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