Chester vs Pittsburgh: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Chester, PA and Pittsburgh, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chester, PA | Pittsburgh, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $133,547 | $133,745▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $64.21 | $64.30▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,650 | $97,565▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $111,425 | $121,081▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $156,102 | $164,540▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $186,022▲ | $169,524 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 340▲ |
Verdict
Pittsburgh, PA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Chester.
The salary gap between Chester and Pittsburgh is $198 (0.15%). 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 Chester spans $105,372,Pittsburgh spans $71,959. Chester 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 3.04% more than Chester ($137,112 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($186,022)
- ✓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 Chester grew 2.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.7% growth in Pittsburgh over the same period.
Chester, PA
$127,061 (2024) → $129,708 (2025)
Pittsburgh, PA
$114,280 (2019) → $129,900 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chester, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Chester or Pittsburgh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chester and Pittsburgh?
Should I relocate from Chester to Pittsburgh as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Chester vs Pittsburgh?
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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