Lexington vs Richmond: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Lexington, KY and Richmond, KY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lexington, KY | Richmond, KY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $143,176▲ | $123,636 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.83▲ | $59.44 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,256▲ | $71,710 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,350 | $98,469▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $180,860▲ | $147,276 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $285,055▲ | $172,370 |
| Total Employed | 40▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Lexington, KY offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Richmond.
The salary gap between Lexington and Richmond is $19,540 (15.80%). Lexington's median is +1.82% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lexington spans $203,799,Richmond spans $100,660. Lexington 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, Lexington ($154,137 effective) pays 11.33% more than Richmond ($138,450 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lexington if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($143,176/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($285,055)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $154,137)
- ✓You prefer the Kentucky area and lifestyle
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓You prefer the Kentucky area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Lexington grew -3.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 11.9% growth in Richmond over the same period.
Lexington, KY
$144,770 (2019) → $139,060 (2025)
Richmond, KY
$107,271 (2024) → $120,082 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lexington, KY
Richmond, KY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Lexington or Richmond?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lexington and Richmond?
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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