Reno vs Sparks: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Reno, NV and Sparks, NV. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Reno, NV | Sparks, NV |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $145,410▲ | $139,453 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.91▲ | $67.05 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $102,486▲ | $80,883 |
| 25th Percentile | $139,820▲ | $113,916 |
| 75th Percentile | $186,893▲ | $173,197 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $186,893 | $213,707▲ |
| Total Employed | 80▲ | 28 |
Verdict
Reno, NV offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Sparks.
The salary gap between Reno and Sparks is $5,957 (4.27%). Reno's median is +3.41% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Reno spans $84,407,Sparks spans $132,824. Sparks 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, Reno ($143,950 effective) pays 1.47% more than Sparks ($141,865 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Reno if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($145,410/year)
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $143,950)
- ✓You prefer the Nevada area and lifestyle
Choose Sparks if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($213,707)
- ✓You prefer the Nevada area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Reno grew 6.3% from 2020 to 2025, compared to 1.2% growth in Sparks over the same period.
Reno, NV
$132,860 (2020) → $141,230 (2025)
Sparks, NV
$133,887 (2024) → $135,444 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Reno or Sparks?
What is the hourly rate difference between Reno and Sparks?
Should I relocate from Reno to Sparks as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Reno vs Sparks?
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