Erie vs Philadelphia: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Erie, PA and Philadelphia, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Erie, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $138,203 | $158,538▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $66.44 | $76.22▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $101,611▲ | $94,291 |
| 25th Percentile | $128,154▲ | $126,620 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,014 | $175,917▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $213,951▲ | $201,441 |
| Total Employed | 40 | 890▲ |
Verdict
Philadelphia, PA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Erie.
The salary gap between Erie and Philadelphia is $20,335 (14.71%). Philadelphia's median is +12.75% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Erie spans $112,340,Philadelphia spans $107,150. Erie 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, Philadelphia ($154,590 effective) pays 1.73% more than Erie ($151,955 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Erie if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($213,951)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Philadelphia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($158,538/year)
- ✓Larger job market (890 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $154,590)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Erie grew 40.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 14.4% growth in Philadelphia over the same period.
Erie, PA
$95,380 (2019) → $134,230 (2025)
Philadelphia, PA
$134,640 (2019) → $153,980 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Erie or Philadelphia?
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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