Phoenix vs Gilbert: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Gilbert, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Gilbert, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $119,392 | $142,013▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $57.40 | $68.27▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $102,517▲ | $82,367 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,304 | $113,773▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $171,490 | $178,225▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $177,256 | $220,120▲ |
| Total Employed | 860▲ | 49 |
Verdict
Gilbert, AZ offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Phoenix.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Gilbert is $22,621 (18.95%). Gilbert's median is +1.00% 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,Gilbert spans $137,753. Gilbert 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, Gilbert ($144,176 effective) pays 24.76% 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 Gilbert if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($142,013/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($220,120)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $144,176)
- ✓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 1.2% growth in Gilbert over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$119,010 (2019) → $115,960 (2025)
Gilbert, AZ
$136,345 (2024) → $137,930 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Gilbert, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Phoenix or Gilbert?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Gilbert?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Gilbert as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Phoenix vs Gilbert?
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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