Erie vs Pittsburgh: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Erie, PA and Pittsburgh, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Erie, PA | Pittsburgh, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $138,203▲ | $133,745 |
| Hourly Rate | $66.44▲ | $64.30 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $101,611▲ | $97,565 |
| 25th Percentile | $128,154▲ | $121,081 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,014▲ | $164,540 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $213,951▲ | $169,524 |
| Total Employed | 40 | 340▲ |
Verdict
Erie, PA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Pittsburgh.
The salary gap between Erie and Pittsburgh is $4,458 (3.33%). Erie's median is -1.71% 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,Pittsburgh spans $71,959. 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, Erie ($151,955 effective) pays 7.56% more than Pittsburgh ($141,273 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Erie if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,203/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($213,951)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $151,955)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Pittsburgh if…
- ✓Larger job market (340 employed)
- ✓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 13.7% growth in Pittsburgh over the same period.
Erie, PA
$95,380 (2019) → $134,230 (2025)
Pittsburgh, PA
$114,280 (2019) → $129,900 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pittsburgh, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
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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