Concord vs Manchester: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Concord, NH and Manchester, NH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Concord, NH | Manchester, NH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $143,769▲ | $128,154 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.12▲ | $61.61 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,541▲ | $79,413 |
| 25th Percentile | $117,530 | $128,154▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $174,194▲ | $134,342 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $210,346▲ | $168,772 |
| Total Employed | 11 | 100▲ |
Verdict
Concord, NH offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Manchester.
The salary gap between Concord and Manchester is $15,615 (12.18%). Concord's median is +2.25% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Concord spans $126,805,Manchester spans $89,359. Concord 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, Concord ($133,988 effective) pays 10.47% more than Manchester ($121,292 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Concord if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($143,769/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($210,346)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $133,988)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Choose Manchester if…
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Concord grew -2.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -13.7% growth in Manchester over the same period.
Concord, NH
$143,143 (2024) → $139,636 (2025)
Manchester, NH
$144,150 (2019) → $124,470 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Concord, NH
Manchester, NH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Concord or Manchester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Concord and Manchester?
Should I relocate from Concord to Manchester as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Concord vs Manchester?
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