Fort Smith vs Van Buren: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Fort Smith, AR and Van Buren, AR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fort Smith, AR | Van Buren, AR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $112,432 | $113,423▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $54.05 | $54.53▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $59,676 | $68,999▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,943 | $94,909▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $131,624 | $135,960▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $171,881▲ | $161,907 |
| Total Employed | 40▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Fort Smith and Van Buren are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Fort Smith and Van Buren is $991 (0.88%). Van Buren's median is -19.34% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fort Smith spans $112,205,Van Buren spans $92,908. Fort Smith 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, Fort Smith ($130,905 effective) pays 0.29% more than Van Buren ($130,521 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fort Smith if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($171,881)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $130,905)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Choose Van Buren if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($113,423/year)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Fort Smith grew 158.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.8% growth in Van Buren over the same period.
Fort Smith, AR
$42,200 (2019) → $109,200 (2025)
Van Buren, AR
$92,763 (2024) → $110,162 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fort Smith, AR
Van Buren, AR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Fort Smith or Van Buren?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fort Smith and Van Buren?
Should I relocate from Fort Smith to Van Buren as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Fort Smith vs Van Buren?
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