Dover vs Middletown: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Dover, DE and Middletown, DE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dover, DE | Middletown, DE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $170,564▲ | $132,128 |
| Hourly Rate | $82.00▲ | $63.53 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $106,049▲ | $76,634 |
| 25th Percentile | $139,305▲ | $106,831 |
| 75th Percentile | $194,069▲ | $154,877 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $208,854▲ | $182,943 |
| Total Employed | 30▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Dover, DE offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Middletown.
The salary gap between Dover and Middletown is $38,436 (29.09%). Dover's median is +21.30% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dover spans $102,805,Middletown spans $106,309. Middletown 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, Dover ($174,925 effective) pays 34.64% more than Middletown ($129,919 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dover if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($170,564/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($208,854)
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $174,925)
- ✓You prefer the Delaware area and lifestyle
Choose Middletown if…
- ✓You prefer the Delaware area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Dover grew 32.6% from 2023 to 2025, compared to 1.2% growth in Middletown over the same period.
Dover, DE
$124,890 (2023) → $165,660 (2025)
Middletown, DE
$126,853 (2024) → $128,329 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Middletown, DE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Dover or Middletown?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dover and Middletown?
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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