Providence vs South Kingstown: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Providence, RI and South Kingstown, RI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Providence, RI | South Kingstown, RI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $144,051▲ | $134,142 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.25▲ | $64.49 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,495▲ | $77,803 |
| 25th Percentile | $125,961▲ | $109,046 |
| 75th Percentile | $176,587▲ | $161,934 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $222,023▲ | $195,283 |
| Total Employed | 310▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Providence, RI offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to South Kingstown.
The salary gap between Providence and South Kingstown is $9,909 (7.39%). Providence's median is +2.45% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Providence spans $142,528,South Kingstown spans $117,480. Providence 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, Providence ($141,541 effective) pays 6.04% more than South Kingstown ($133,475 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Providence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($144,051/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($222,023)
- ✓Larger job market (310 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $141,541)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Choose South Kingstown if…
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Providence grew 37.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -1.0% growth in South Kingstown over the same period.
Providence, RI
$101,670 (2019) → $139,910 (2025)
South Kingstown, RI
$131,650 (2024) → $130,286 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Providence, RI
South Kingstown, RI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Providence or South Kingstown?
What is the hourly rate difference between Providence and South Kingstown?
Should I relocate from Providence to South Kingstown as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Providence vs South Kingstown?
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