Gastonia vs Raleigh: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Gastonia, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gastonia, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $158,412 | $168,123▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $76.16 | $80.83▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $91,879 | $103,207▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $126,844 | $129,452▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $190,836 | $205,961▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $231,588▲ | $220,190 |
| Total Employed | 16 | 240▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Gastonia.
The salary gap between Gastonia and Raleigh is $9,711 (6.13%). Raleigh's median is +19.57% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gastonia spans $139,709,Raleigh spans $116,983. Gastonia 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, Raleigh ($171,280 effective) pays 1.20% more than Gastonia ($169,244 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gastonia if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($231,588)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($168,123/year)
- ✓Larger job market (240 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $171,280)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Gastonia grew 30.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 61.2% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Gastonia, NC
$117,895 (2024) → $153,858 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$101,270 (2019) → $163,290 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gastonia, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Gastonia or Raleigh?
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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