New York vs Albany: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between New York, NY and Albany, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New York, NY | Albany, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $165,796 | $168,875▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $79.71 | $81.18▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $107,830▲ | $67,912 |
| 25th Percentile | $133,848▲ | $119,392 |
| 75th Percentile | $184,319▲ | $179,892 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $209,060▲ | $199,341 |
| Total Employed | 2,580▲ | 130 |
Verdict
New York and Albany are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between New York and Albany is $3,079 (1.86%). Albany's median is +20.10% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New York spans $101,230,Albany spans $131,429. Albany 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, Albany ($169,611 effective) pays 15.15% more than New York ($147,292 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New York if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($209,060)
- ✓Larger job market (2,580 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Albany if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($168,875/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $169,611)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in New York grew 29.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 17.0% growth in Albany over the same period.
New York, NY
$124,570 (2019) → $161,030 (2025)
Albany, NY
$140,220 (2019) → $164,020 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New York, NY
Albany, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: New York or Albany?
What is the hourly rate difference between New York and Albany?
Should I relocate from New York to Albany as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in New York vs Albany?
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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