Columbus vs Newark: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Columbus, OH and Newark, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, OH | Newark, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,318▲ | $130,721 |
| Hourly Rate | $66.02▲ | $62.85 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,344 | $75,819▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $121,225▲ | $106,710 |
| 75th Percentile | $170,903▲ | $155,418 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $218,255▲ | $186,386 |
| Total Employed | 260▲ | 10 |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Newark.
The salary gap between Columbus and Newark is $6,597 (5.05%). Columbus's median is -2.34% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $148,911,Newark spans $110,567. Columbus 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, Newark ($144,125 effective) pays 0.20% more than Columbus ($143,835 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($137,318/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($218,255)
- ✓Larger job market (260 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Newark if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $144,125)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Columbus grew 14.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.1% growth in Newark over the same period.
Columbus, OH
$116,410 (2019) → $133,370 (2025)
Newark, OH
$112,245 (2024) → $126,963 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Newark, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Columbus or Newark?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Newark?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Newark as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Columbus vs Newark?
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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