Columbia vs Hilton Head Island: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Columbia, SC and Hilton Head Island, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Hilton Head Island, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $160,978▲ | $127,801 |
| Hourly Rate | $77.40▲ | $61.45 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,481 | $74,125▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,741 | $103,180▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $168,350▲ | $153,591 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $172,582 | $184,921▲ |
| Total Employed | 90▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Hilton Head Island.
The salary gap between Columbia and Hilton Head Island is $33,177 (25.96%). 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,Hilton Head Island spans $110,796. 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 23.05% more than Hilton Head Island ($139,673 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 Hilton Head Island if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($184,921)
- ✓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 28.1% growth in Hilton Head Island over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$103,540 (2019) → $156,350 (2025)
Hilton Head Island, SC
$96,930 (2019) → $124,127 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Hilton Head Island, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Columbia or Hilton Head Island?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbia and Hilton Head Island?
Should I relocate from Columbia to Hilton Head Island as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Columbia vs Hilton Head Island?
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