New York vs Rochester: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between New York, NY and Rochester, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New York, NY | Rochester, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $165,796▲ | $164,098 |
| Hourly Rate | $79.71▲ | $78.89 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $107,830▲ | $101,961 |
| 25th Percentile | $133,848▲ | $130,327 |
| 75th Percentile | $184,319▲ | $172,808 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $209,060▲ | $193,246 |
| Total Employed | 2,580▲ | 120 |
Verdict
New York, NY offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between New York and Rochester is $1,698 (1.03%). New York's median is +17.91% 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,Rochester spans $91,285. New York 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, Rochester ($169,112 effective) pays 14.81% 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…
- ✓Higher median salary ($165,796/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($209,060)
- ✓Larger job market (2,580 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $169,112)
- ✓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 38.6% growth in Rochester over the same period.
New York, NY
$124,570 (2019) → $161,030 (2025)
Rochester, NY
$114,990 (2019) → $159,380 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New York, NY
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: New York or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between New York and Rochester?
Should I relocate from New York to Rochester as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in New York vs Rochester?
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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