Columbia vs Towson: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Columbia, MD and Towson, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, MD | Towson, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $151,220▲ | $147,964 |
| Hourly Rate | $72.70▲ | $71.14 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,708▲ | $86,656 |
| 25th Percentile | $117,980 | $121,574▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $185,496▲ | $181,460 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $227,840▲ | $221,474 |
| Total Employed | 24▲ | 11 |
Verdict
Columbia, MD offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Towson.
The salary gap between Columbia and Towson is $3,256 (2.20%). Columbia's median is +7.54% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $140,132,Towson spans $134,818. Columbia 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, Columbia ($138,353 effective) pays 2.20% more than Towson ($135,374 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($151,220/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($227,840)
- ✓Larger job market (24 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $138,353)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Towson if…
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Columbia grew -9.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -8.0% growth in Towson over the same period.
Columbia, MD
$162,958 (2024) → $146,873 (2025)
Towson, MD
$156,291 (2024) → $143,710 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, MD
Towson, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Columbia or Towson?
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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