Hamden vs New Haven: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Hamden, CT and New Haven, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hamden, CT | New Haven, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $149,296 | $155,099▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $71.77 | $74.56▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,767 | $99,398▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $122,281 | $139,305▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $176,902▲ | $162,625 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $228,270▲ | $226,872 |
| Total Employed | 13 | 90▲ |
Verdict
New Haven, CT offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Hamden.
The salary gap between Hamden and New Haven is $5,803 (3.89%). New Haven's median is +10.30% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hamden spans $141,503,New Haven spans $127,474. Hamden 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, New Haven ($148,336 effective) pays 7.21% more than Hamden ($138,365 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hamden if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($228,270)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose New Haven if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($155,099/year)
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $148,336)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Hamden grew -5.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 11.5% growth in New Haven over the same period.
Hamden, CT
$153,955 (2024) → $145,004 (2025)
New Haven, CT
$135,110 (2019) → $150,640 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hamden, CT
New Haven, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Hamden or New Haven?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hamden and New Haven?
Should I relocate from Hamden to New Haven as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Hamden vs New Haven?
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