Ogden vs Payson: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Ogden, UT and Payson, UT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ogden, UT | Payson, UT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,072▲ | $129,545 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.42▲ | $62.28 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $49,905 | $75,136▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $53,272 | $110,260▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $163,120▲ | $149,498 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $177,709▲ | $175,568 |
| Total Employed | 70▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Ogden, UT offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Payson.
The salary gap between Ogden and Payson is $6,527 (5.04%). Ogden's median is -3.23% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ogden spans $127,804,Payson spans $100,432. Ogden 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, Ogden ($135,599 effective) pays 2.68% more than Payson ($132,054 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ogden if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($136,072/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($177,709)
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $135,599)
- ✓You prefer the Utah area and lifestyle
Choose Payson if…
- ✓You prefer the Utah area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Ogden grew 14.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in Payson over the same period.
Ogden, UT
$115,830 (2019) → $132,160 (2025)
Payson, UT
$117,925 (2024) → $125,821 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Payson, UT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Ogden or Payson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ogden and Payson?
Should I relocate from Ogden to Payson as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Ogden vs Payson?
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