Columbia vs Fort Mill: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Columbia, SC and Fort Mill, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Fort Mill, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $160,978▲ | $123,839 |
| Hourly Rate | $77.40▲ | $59.54 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,481 | $72,486▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,741 | $101,553▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $168,350▲ | $146,498 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $172,582 | $173,628▲ |
| Total Employed | 90▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Fort Mill.
The salary gap between Columbia and Fort Mill is $37,139 (29.99%). Columbia's median is +14.48% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $122,101,Fort Mill spans $101,142. 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 ($171,871 effective) pays 26.99% more than Fort Mill ($135,343 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 ($160,978/year)
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $171,871)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Fort Mill if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($173,628)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Columbia grew 51.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 11.9% growth in Fort Mill over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$103,540 (2019) → $156,350 (2025)
Fort Mill, SC
$107,446 (2024) → $120,279 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Fort Mill, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Columbia or Fort Mill?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbia and Fort Mill?
Should I relocate from Columbia to Fort Mill as a optometrist?
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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