Memphis vs Oak Ridge: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Memphis, TN and Oak Ridge, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Memphis, TN | Oak Ridge, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,901▲ | $130,394 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.90▲ | $62.69 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,090 | $75,628▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $54,095 | $103,278▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $165,827▲ | $154,771 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $173,333 | $193,529▲ |
| Total Employed | 110▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Memphis, TN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Oak Ridge.
The salary gap between Memphis and Oak Ridge is $2,507 (1.92%). Memphis's median is -5.48% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Memphis spans $123,243,Oak Ridge spans $117,901. Memphis 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, Memphis ($144,177 effective) pays 1.50% more than Oak Ridge ($142,041 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,901/year)
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $144,177)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Oak Ridge if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($193,529)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Memphis grew 35.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 9.9% growth in Oak Ridge over the same period.
Memphis, TN
$95,170 (2019) → $129,080 (2025)
Oak Ridge, TN
$115,287 (2024) → $126,645 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Memphis, TN
Oak Ridge, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Memphis or Oak Ridge?
What is the hourly rate difference between Memphis and Oak Ridge?
Should I relocate from Memphis to Oak Ridge as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Memphis vs Oak Ridge?
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