Phoenix vs Surprise: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Surprise, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $119,392 | $138,203▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $57.40 | $66.44▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $102,517▲ | $80,157 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,304 | $111,096▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $171,490▲ | $169,595 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $177,256 | $209,062▲ |
| Total Employed | 860▲ | 31 |
Verdict
Surprise, AZ offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Phoenix.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Surprise is $18,811 (15.76%). Surprise's median is -1.71% 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,Surprise spans $128,905. Surprise 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, Surprise ($140,308 effective) pays 21.42% 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 Surprise if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,203/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($209,062)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $140,308)
- ✓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 Surprise over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$119,010 (2019) → $115,960 (2025)
Surprise, AZ
$132,688 (2024) → $134,230 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Surprise, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Phoenix or Surprise?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Surprise?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Surprise as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Phoenix vs Surprise?
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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