Las Cruces vs Roswell: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Las Cruces, NM and Roswell, NM. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Las Cruces, NM | Roswell, NM |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,139▲ | $130,214 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.94▲ | $62.60 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,541▲ | $75,524 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,816▲ | $103,110 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,788▲ | $154,729 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $203,244▲ | $184,875 |
| Total Employed | 28▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Las Cruces, NM offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Roswell.
The salary gap between Las Cruces and Roswell is $6,925 (5.32%). Las Cruces's median is -2.47% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Las Cruces spans $123,703,Roswell spans $109,351. Las Cruces 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, Las Cruces ($145,274 effective) pays 5.32% more than Roswell ($137,939 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Las Cruces if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($137,139/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($203,244)
- ✓Larger job market (28 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $145,274)
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Choose Roswell if…
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Las Cruces grew 6.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in Roswell over the same period.
Las Cruces, NM
$124,837 (2024) → $133,196 (2025)
Roswell, NM
$118,534 (2024) → $126,470 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Las Cruces, NM
Roswell, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Las Cruces or Roswell?
What is the hourly rate difference between Las Cruces and Roswell?
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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