Richland vs Seattle: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Richland, WA and Seattle, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Richland, WA | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $157,144 | $172,777▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $75.55 | $83.07▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $91,143 | $124,942▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $124,350 | $138,615▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $187,950 | $206,775▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $227,270 | $234,275▲ |
| Total Employed | 15 | 420▲ |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Richland.
The salary gap between Richland and Seattle is $15,633 (9.95%). Seattle's median is +22.88% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Richland spans $136,127,Seattle spans $109,333. Richland 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, Seattle ($155,469 effective) pays 6.25% more than Richland ($146,317 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Richland if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($172,777/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($234,275)
- ✓Larger job market (420 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $155,469)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Richland grew -5.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 39.8% growth in Seattle over the same period.
Richland, WA
$160,642 (2024) → $152,626 (2025)
Seattle, WA
$120,070 (2019) → $167,810 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Richland, WA
Seattle, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Richland or Seattle?
What is the hourly rate difference between Richland and Seattle?
Should I relocate from Richland to Seattle as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Richland vs Seattle?
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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