Pierre vs Watertown: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Pierre, SD and Watertown, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pierre, SD | Watertown, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $122,596 | $125,470▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $58.94 | $60.32▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,105 | $73,218▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $104,406▲ | $102,728 |
| 75th Percentile | $146,065 | $148,276▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $173,562 | $175,669▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 6▲ |
Verdict
Watertown, SD offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Pierre.
The salary gap between Pierre and Watertown is $2,874 (2.34%). Watertown's median is -10.77% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Pierre spans $102,457,Watertown spans $102,451. Pierre 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, Watertown ($135,205 effective) pays 2.34% more than Pierre ($132,108 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Pierre if…
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Watertown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($125,470/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($175,669)
- ✓Larger job market (6 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $135,205)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Pierre grew 9.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.3% growth in Watertown over the same period.
Pierre, SD
$108,983 (2024) → $119,071 (2025)
Watertown, SD
$111,539 (2024) → $121,863 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pierre, SD
Watertown, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Pierre or Watertown?
What is the hourly rate difference between Pierre and Watertown?
Should I relocate from Pierre to Watertown as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Pierre vs Watertown?
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