Derry vs Manchester: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Derry, NH and Manchester, NH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Derry, NH | Manchester, NH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $144,811▲ | $128,154 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.62▲ | $61.61 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $85,847▲ | $79,413 |
| 25th Percentile | $119,637 | $128,154▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $176,675▲ | $134,342 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $213,871▲ | $168,772 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 100▲ |
Verdict
Derry, NH offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Manchester.
The salary gap between Derry and Manchester is $16,657 (13.00%). Derry's median is +2.99% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Derry spans $128,024,Manchester spans $89,359. Derry 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, Derry ($134,959 effective) pays 11.27% 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 Derry if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($144,811/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($213,871)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $134,959)
- ✓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 Derry grew -2.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -13.7% growth in Manchester over the same period.
Derry, NH
$144,180 (2024) → $140,648 (2025)
Manchester, NH
$144,150 (2019) → $124,470 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Manchester, NH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Derry or Manchester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Derry and Manchester?
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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