Mobile vs Tuscaloosa: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Mobile, AL and Tuscaloosa, AL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Mobile, AL | Tuscaloosa, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $127,735▲ | $123,835 |
| Hourly Rate | $61.42▲ | $59.53 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,087▲ | $71,825 |
| 25th Percentile | $100,447 | $101,404▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $154,470▲ | $146,614 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $189,391▲ | $177,234 |
| Total Employed | 27▲ | 18 |
Verdict
Mobile, AL offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Tuscaloosa.
The salary gap between Mobile and Tuscaloosa is $3,900 (3.15%). Mobile's median is -9.16% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Mobile spans $115,304,Tuscaloosa spans $105,409. Mobile 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, Mobile ($145,319 effective) pays 3.15% more than Tuscaloosa ($140,882 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Mobile if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($127,735/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($189,391)
- ✓Larger job market (27 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $145,319)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Choose Tuscaloosa if…
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Mobile grew 40.6% from 2023 to 2025, compared to 15.7% growth in Tuscaloosa over the same period.
Mobile, AL
$88,220 (2023) → $124,063 (2025)
Tuscaloosa, AL
$103,921 (2024) → $120,275 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Mobile, AL
Tuscaloosa, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Mobile or Tuscaloosa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Mobile and Tuscaloosa?
Should I relocate from Mobile to Tuscaloosa as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Mobile vs Tuscaloosa?
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