Phoenix vs Chandler: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Chandler, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Chandler, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $119,392 | $120,228▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $57.40 | $57.80▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $102,517▲ | $69,733 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,304▲ | $90,896 |
| 75th Percentile | $171,490▲ | $148,000 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $177,256 | $183,686▲ |
| Total Employed | 860▲ | 49 |
Verdict
Chandler, AZ offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Phoenix.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Chandler is $836 (0.70%). Chandler's median is -14.50% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $74,739,Chandler spans $113,953. Chandler 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, Chandler ($122,059 effective) pays 5.62% more than Phoenix ($115,560 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Larger job market (860 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Chandler if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($120,228/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($183,686)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $122,059)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Phoenix grew -2.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -15.3% growth in Chandler over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$119,010 (2019) → $115,960 (2025)
Chandler, AZ
$137,923 (2024) → $116,772 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Chandler, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Phoenix or Chandler?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Chandler?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Chandler as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Phoenix vs Chandler?
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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