Morgantown vs Weirton: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Morgantown, WV and Weirton, WV. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Morgantown, WV | Weirton, WV |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $116,447▲ | $115,261 |
| Hourly Rate | $55.98▲ | $55.41 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,555▲ | $66,851 |
| 25th Percentile | $95,853▲ | $92,258 |
| 75th Percentile | $141,905▲ | $131,951 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $171,130▲ | $164,772 |
| Total Employed | 8▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Morgantown, WV offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Weirton.
The salary gap between Morgantown and Weirton is $1,186 (1.03%). Morgantown's median is -17.19% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Morgantown spans $102,575,Weirton spans $97,921. Morgantown 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, Morgantown ($134,621 effective) pays 1.03% more than Weirton ($133,250 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Morgantown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($116,447/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($171,130)
- ✓Larger job market (8 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $134,621)
- ✓You prefer the West Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Weirton if…
- ✓You prefer the West Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Morgantown grew 18.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 18.8% growth in Weirton over the same period.
Morgantown, WV
$95,236 (2024) → $113,099 (2025)
Weirton, WV
$94,266 (2024) → $111,947 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Morgantown, WV
Weirton, WV
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Morgantown or Weirton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Morgantown and Weirton?
Should I relocate from Morgantown to Weirton as a optometrist?
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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