Laconia vs Manchester: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Laconia, NH and Manchester, NH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Laconia, NH | Manchester, NH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $144,520▲ | $128,154 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.48▲ | $61.61 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,822▲ | $79,413 |
| 25th Percentile | $117,625 | $128,154▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $167,062▲ | $134,342 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $196,319▲ | $168,772 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 100▲ |
Verdict
Laconia, NH offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Manchester.
The salary gap between Laconia and Manchester is $16,366 (12.77%). Laconia's median is +2.78% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Laconia spans $112,497,Manchester spans $89,359. Laconia 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, Laconia ($134,688 effective) pays 11.04% more than Manchester ($121,292 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Laconia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($144,520/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($196,319)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $134,688)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Choose Manchester if…
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Laconia grew -2.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -13.7% growth in Manchester over the same period.
Laconia, NH
$143,890 (2024) → $140,365 (2025)
Manchester, NH
$144,150 (2019) → $124,470 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Laconia, NH
Manchester, NH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Laconia or Manchester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Laconia and Manchester?
Should I relocate from Laconia to Manchester as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Laconia vs Manchester?
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