New Haven vs Stratford: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between New Haven, CT and Stratford, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New Haven, CT | Stratford, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $155,099▲ | $150,294 |
| Hourly Rate | $74.56▲ | $72.26 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $99,398▲ | $87,170 |
| 25th Percentile | $139,305▲ | $124,296 |
| 75th Percentile | $162,625 | $179,166▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $226,872▲ | $217,147 |
| Total Employed | 90▲ | 13 |
Verdict
New Haven, CT offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Stratford.
The salary gap between New Haven and Stratford is $4,805 (3.20%). New Haven's median is +10.30% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New Haven spans $127,474,Stratford spans $129,977. Stratford 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, New Haven ($148,336 effective) pays 6.49% more than Stratford ($139,290 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New Haven if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($155,099/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($226,872)
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $148,336)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Stratford if…
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in New Haven grew 11.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -5.8% growth in Stratford over the same period.
New Haven, CT
$135,110 (2019) → $150,640 (2025)
Stratford, CT
$154,983 (2024) → $145,973 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New Haven, CT
Stratford, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: New Haven or Stratford?
What is the hourly rate difference between New Haven and Stratford?
Should I relocate from New Haven to Stratford as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in New Haven vs Stratford?
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