Keizer vs Salem: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Keizer, OR and Salem, OR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Keizer, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,710 | $138,574▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $65.73 | $66.63▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,292 | $108,252▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $107,815 | $134,250▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $161,815▲ | $149,086 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $193,738▲ | $163,820 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 60▲ |
Verdict
Salem, OR offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Keizer.
The salary gap between Keizer and Salem is $1,864 (1.36%). Salem's median is -1.45% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Keizer spans $114,446,Salem spans $55,568. Keizer 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, Salem ($133,695 effective) pays 0.34% more than Keizer ($133,246 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Keizer if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($193,738)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,574/year)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $133,695)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Keizer grew -1.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.4% growth in Salem over the same period.
Keizer, OR
$134,171 (2024) → $132,780 (2025)
Salem, OR
$110,870 (2019) → $134,590 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Keizer, OR
Frequently Asked Questions
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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