Lafayette vs Shreveport: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Lafayette, LA and Shreveport, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lafayette, LA | Shreveport, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $130,331▲ | $127,797 |
| Hourly Rate | $62.66▲ | $61.44 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,592▲ | $74,122 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,328▲ | $104,054 |
| 75th Percentile | $156,509▲ | $153,331 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $191,389▲ | $186,938 |
| Total Employed | 18 | 28▲ |
Verdict
Lafayette, LA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Shreveport.
The salary gap between Lafayette and Shreveport is $2,534 (1.98%). Lafayette's median is -7.31% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lafayette spans $115,797,Shreveport spans $112,816. Lafayette 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, Lafayette ($144,331 effective) pays 1.98% more than Shreveport ($141,525 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lafayette if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($130,331/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($191,389)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $144,331)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Shreveport if…
- ✓Larger job market (28 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Lafayette grew 0.5% from 2022 to 2025, compared to -20.5% growth in Shreveport over the same period.
Lafayette, LA
$125,990 (2022) → $126,584 (2025)
Shreveport, LA
$156,090 (2019) → $124,123 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lafayette, LA
Shreveport, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Lafayette or Shreveport?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lafayette and Shreveport?
Should I relocate from Lafayette to Shreveport as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Lafayette vs Shreveport?
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