Mesa vs Scottsdale: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Mesa, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Mesa, AZ | Scottsdale, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $118,815 | $145,962▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $57.12 | $70.18▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,912 | $84,658▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $95,137 | $113,115▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $144,530 | $182,348▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $178,572 | $222,757▲ |
| Total Employed | 98▲ | 44 |
Verdict
Scottsdale, AZ offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Mesa.
The salary gap between Mesa and Scottsdale is $27,147 (22.85%). Scottsdale's median is +3.80% 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,Scottsdale spans $138,099. Scottsdale 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, Scottsdale ($148,185 effective) pays 22.85% 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 Scottsdale if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($145,962/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($222,757)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $148,185)
- ✓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 Scottsdale over the same period.
Mesa, AZ
$142,918 (2024) → $115,399 (2025)
Scottsdale, AZ
$140,136 (2024) → $141,766 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Scottsdale, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Mesa or Scottsdale?
What is the hourly rate difference between Mesa and Scottsdale?
Should I relocate from Mesa to Scottsdale as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Mesa vs Scottsdale?
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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