Elizabeth vs Trenton: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Elizabeth, NJ and Trenton, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Elizabeth, NJ | Trenton, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $163,469▲ | $160,576 |
| Hourly Rate | $78.59▲ | $77.20 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $94,812▲ | $55,403 |
| 25th Percentile | $133,580▲ | $127,475 |
| 75th Percentile | $202,818 | $319,701▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $251,016 | $319,701▲ |
| Total Employed | 25 | 70▲ |
Verdict
Elizabeth and Trenton are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Elizabeth and Trenton is $2,893 (1.80%). Elizabeth's median is +16.26% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Elizabeth spans $156,204,Trenton spans $264,298. Trenton 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, Trenton ($155,627 effective) pays 9.67% more than Elizabeth ($141,900 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Elizabeth if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($163,469/year)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Trenton if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($319,701)
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $155,627)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Elizabeth grew -9.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.9% growth in Trenton over the same period.
Elizabeth, NJ
$174,381 (2024) → $158,769 (2025)
Trenton, NJ
$115,630 (2019) → $155,960 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Elizabeth, NJ
Trenton, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Elizabeth or Trenton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Elizabeth and Trenton?
Should I relocate from Elizabeth to Trenton as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Elizabeth vs Trenton?
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