Chula Vista vs Sacramento: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Chula Vista, CA and Sacramento, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chula Vista, CA | Sacramento, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,385 | $143,135▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $66.05 | $68.82▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,683 | $108,993▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $110,972 | $124,283▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $167,916 | $190,805▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $208,582 | $225,554▲ |
| Total Employed | 51 | 510▲ |
Verdict
Sacramento, CA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Chula Vista.
The salary gap between Chula Vista and Sacramento is $5,750 (4.19%). Sacramento's median is +1.79% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chula Vista spans $128,899,Sacramento spans $116,561. Chula Vista 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, Sacramento ($134,185 effective) pays 10.47% more than Chula Vista ($121,472 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chula Vista if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Sacramento if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($143,135/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($225,554)
- ✓Larger job market (510 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $134,185)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Chula Vista grew -28.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 15.6% growth in Sacramento over the same period.
Chula Vista, CA
$186,605 (2024) → $133,435 (2025)
Sacramento, CA
$120,210 (2019) → $139,020 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chula Vista, CA
Sacramento, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Chula Vista or Sacramento?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chula Vista and Sacramento?
Should I relocate from Chula Vista to Sacramento as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Chula Vista vs Sacramento?
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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