Provo vs Washington: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Provo, UT and Washington, UT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Provo, UT | Washington, UT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $88,803 | $134,000▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $42.70 | $64.42▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,355 | $77,720▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $49,308 | $112,666▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $155,099 | $162,498▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $177,585 | $196,283▲ |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Washington, UT offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Provo.
The salary gap between Provo and Washington is $45,197 (50.90%). Washington's median is -4.70% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Provo spans $141,230,Washington spans $118,563. Provo 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, Washington ($136,595 effective) pays 51.10% more than Provo ($90,401 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Provo if…
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Utah area and lifestyle
Choose Washington if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($134,000/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($196,283)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $136,595)
- ✓You prefer the Utah area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Provo grew 24.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in Washington over the same period.
Provo, UT
$69,340 (2019) → $86,250 (2025)
Washington, UT
$121,981 (2024) → $130,148 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Washington, UT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Provo or Washington?
What is the hourly rate difference between Provo and Washington?
Should I relocate from Provo to Washington as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Provo vs Washington?
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