Mesa vs Sahuarita: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Mesa, AZ and Sahuarita, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Mesa, AZ | Sahuarita, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $118,815 | $133,708▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $57.12 | $64.28▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,912 | $80,393▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $95,137 | $111,404▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $144,530 | $156,188▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $178,572 | $193,820▲ |
| Total Employed | 98▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Sahuarita, AZ offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Mesa.
The salary gap between Mesa and Sahuarita is $14,893 (12.53%). Sahuarita's median is -4.91% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Mesa spans $109,660,Sahuarita spans $113,427. Sahuarita has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Sahuarita ($135,744 effective) pays 12.53% more than Mesa ($120,624 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Mesa if…
- ✓Larger job market (98 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Sahuarita if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($133,708/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($193,820)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $135,744)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Mesa grew -19.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 1.2% growth in Sahuarita over the same period.
Mesa, AZ
$142,918 (2024) → $115,399 (2025)
Sahuarita, AZ
$128,372 (2024) → $129,864 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Sahuarita, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Mesa or Sahuarita?
What is the hourly rate difference between Mesa and Sahuarita?
Should I relocate from Mesa to Sahuarita as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Mesa vs Sahuarita?
Related Comparisons
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