Fargo vs West Fargo: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Fargo, ND and West Fargo, ND. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fargo, ND | West Fargo, ND |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,618▲ | $127,134 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.68▲ | $61.12 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $113,246▲ | $73,738 |
| 25th Percentile | $113,287▲ | $100,956 |
| 75th Percentile | $156,314▲ | $148,461 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $175,413 | $188,710▲ |
| Total Employed | 40▲ | 10 |
Verdict
Fargo, ND offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to West Fargo.
The salary gap between Fargo and West Fargo is $9,484 (7.46%). Fargo's median is -2.84% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fargo spans $62,167,West Fargo spans $114,972. West Fargo 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, Fargo ($150,343 effective) pays 8.79% more than West Fargo ($138,189 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fargo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($136,618/year)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $150,343)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose West Fargo if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($188,710)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Fargo grew 5.2% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in West Fargo over the same period.
Fargo, ND
$126,090 (2021) → $132,690 (2025)
West Fargo, ND
$115,730 (2024) → $123,479 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
West Fargo, ND
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