Los Angeles vs Merced: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Los Angeles, CA and Merced, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Los Angeles, CA | Merced, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $143,053▲ | $135,377 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.78▲ | $65.08 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,717 | $78,518▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $131,325▲ | $105,878 |
| 75th Percentile | $166,188▲ | $163,424 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $215,732▲ | $198,995 |
| Total Employed | 2,360▲ | 20 |
Verdict
Los Angeles, CA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Merced.
The salary gap between Los Angeles and Merced is $7,676 (5.67%). Los Angeles's median is +1.74% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Los Angeles spans $140,015,Merced spans $120,477. Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles ($125,965 effective) pays 5.24% more than Merced ($119,697 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($143,053/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($215,732)
- ✓Larger job market (2,360 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $125,965)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Merced if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Los Angeles grew 14.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -25.2% growth in Merced over the same period.
Los Angeles, CA
$121,370 (2019) → $138,940 (2025)
Merced, CA
$175,818 (2024) → $131,485 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Los Angeles, CA
Merced, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Los Angeles or Merced?
What is the hourly rate difference between Los Angeles and Merced?
Should I relocate from Los Angeles to Merced as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Los Angeles vs Merced?
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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