Columbia vs Greenville: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Columbia, SC and Greenville, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Greenville, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $160,978▲ | $153,802 |
| Hourly Rate | $77.40▲ | $73.95 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,481▲ | $45,786 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,741 | $97,936▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $168,350 | $170,461▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $172,582 | $173,920▲ |
| Total Employed | 90▲ | 70 |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Greenville.
The salary gap between Columbia and Greenville is $7,176 (4.67%). 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,Greenville spans $128,134. Greenville has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Columbia ($171,871 effective) pays 4.22% more than Greenville ($164,917 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 Greenville if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($173,920)
- ✓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 83.1% growth in Greenville over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$103,540 (2019) → $156,350 (2025)
Greenville, SC
$81,600 (2019) → $149,380 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Greenville, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Columbia or Greenville?
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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