Jackson vs Knoxville: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Jackson, TN and Knoxville, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jackson, TN | Knoxville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,082▲ | $128,793 |
| Hourly Rate | $64.46▲ | $61.92 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,768▲ | $49,246 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,817▲ | $80,093 |
| 75th Percentile | $162,813 | $166,538▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $193,787▲ | $169,812 |
| Total Employed | 16 | 80▲ |
Verdict
Jackson, TN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Knoxville.
The salary gap between Jackson and Knoxville is $5,289 (4.11%). Jackson's median is -4.64% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jackson spans $116,019,Knoxville spans $120,566. Knoxville 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, Jackson ($146,059 effective) pays 4.98% more than Knoxville ($139,132 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jackson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($134,082/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($193,787)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $146,059)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Knoxville if…
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Jackson grew 9.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -0.1% growth in Knoxville over the same period.
Jackson, TN
$118,549 (2024) → $130,227 (2025)
Knoxville, TN
$125,270 (2019) → $125,090 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jackson, TN
Knoxville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Jackson or Knoxville?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jackson and Knoxville?
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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