Lake Stevens vs Spokane: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Lake Stevens, WA and Spokane, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lake Stevens, WA | Spokane, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $146,059▲ | $129,915 |
| Hourly Rate | $70.22▲ | $62.46 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,800 | $90,790▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $122,021▲ | $107,552 |
| 75th Percentile | $170,879▲ | $160,041 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $203,700▲ | $166,981 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 60▲ |
Verdict
Lake Stevens, WA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Spokane.
The salary gap between Lake Stevens and Spokane is $16,144 (12.43%). Lake Stevens's median is +3.87% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lake Stevens spans $115,900,Spokane spans $76,191. Lake Stevens 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, Lake Stevens ($135,995 effective) pays 5.04% more than Spokane ($129,467 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lake Stevens if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($146,059/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($203,700)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $135,995)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Spokane if…
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Lake Stevens grew -7.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 8.2% growth in Spokane over the same period.
Lake Stevens, WA
$153,733 (2024) → $141,860 (2025)
Spokane, WA
$116,580 (2019) → $126,180 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lake Stevens, WA
Spokane, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Lake Stevens or Spokane?
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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