Jamestown vs New York: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Jamestown, NY and New York, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jamestown, NY | New York, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $161,586 | $165,796▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $77.68 | $79.71▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $93,720 | $107,830▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $136,002▲ | $133,848 |
| 75th Percentile | $190,084▲ | $184,319 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $226,458▲ | $209,060 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 2,580▲ |
Verdict
New York, NY offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Jamestown.
The salary gap between Jamestown and New York is $4,210 (2.61%). New York's median is +17.91% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jamestown spans $132,738,New York spans $101,230. Jamestown 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 York ($147,292 effective) pays 5.65% more than Jamestown ($139,418 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jamestown if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($226,458)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose New York if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($165,796/year)
- ✓Larger job market (2,580 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $147,292)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Jamestown grew -7.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 29.3% growth in New York over the same period.
Jamestown, NY
$169,005 (2024) → $156,941 (2025)
New York, NY
$124,570 (2019) → $161,030 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jamestown, NY
New York, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Jamestown or New York?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jamestown and New York?
Should I relocate from Jamestown to New York as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Jamestown vs New York?
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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