Gallatin vs Memphis: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Gallatin, TN and Memphis, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gallatin, TN | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $128,868 | $132,901▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $61.95 | $63.90▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,744▲ | $50,090 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,062▲ | $54,095 |
| 75th Percentile | $155,994 | $165,827▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $188,305▲ | $173,333 |
| Total Employed | 11 | 110▲ |
Verdict
Memphis, TN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Gallatin.
The salary gap between Gallatin and Memphis is $4,033 (3.13%). Memphis's median is -5.48% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gallatin spans $113,561,Memphis spans $123,243. Memphis 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, Memphis ($144,177 effective) pays 2.71% more than Gallatin ($140,379 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gallatin if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($188,305)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,901/year)
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $144,177)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Gallatin grew 9.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 35.6% growth in Memphis over the same period.
Gallatin, TN
$113,938 (2024) → $125,163 (2025)
Memphis, TN
$95,170 (2019) → $129,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gallatin, TN
Memphis, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Gallatin or Memphis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gallatin and Memphis?
Should I relocate from Gallatin to Memphis as a optometrist?
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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