New Haven vs Waterbury: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between New Haven, CT and Waterbury, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New Haven, CT | Waterbury, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $155,099▲ | $140,633 |
| Hourly Rate | $74.56▲ | $67.61 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $99,398▲ | $95,928 |
| 25th Percentile | $139,305▲ | $135,773 |
| 75th Percentile | $162,625▲ | $160,885 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $226,872▲ | $220,849 |
| Total Employed | 90▲ | 50 |
Verdict
New Haven, CT offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waterbury.
The salary gap between New Haven and Waterbury is $14,466 (10.29%). 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,Waterbury spans $124,921. New Haven 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, New Haven ($148,336 effective) pays 5.24% more than Waterbury ($140,946 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 Waterbury 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 -16.1% growth in Waterbury over the same period.
New Haven, CT
$135,110 (2019) → $150,640 (2025)
Waterbury, CT
$162,770 (2019) → $136,590 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New Haven, CT
Waterbury, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: New Haven or Waterbury?
What is the hourly rate difference between New Haven and Waterbury?
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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