Richmond vs San Jose: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Richmond, CA and San Jose, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Richmond, CA | San Jose, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $141,974▲ | $139,336 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.25▲ | $66.99 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,344 | $138,347▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $109,214 | $138,347▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $172,350 | $174,157▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $211,615 | $213,869▲ |
| Total Employed | 25 | 580▲ |
Verdict
Richmond and San Jose are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Richmond and San Jose is $2,638 (1.89%). Richmond's median is +0.97% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Richmond spans $129,271,San Jose spans $75,522. Richmond 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, San Jose ($126,184 effective) pays 0.52% more than Richmond ($125,530 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($141,974/year)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Jose if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($213,869)
- ✓Larger job market (580 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $126,184)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Richmond grew -25.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 10.3% growth in San Jose over the same period.
Richmond, CA
$184,385 (2024) → $137,892 (2025)
San Jose, CA
$122,740 (2019) → $135,330 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Richmond, CA
San Jose, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Richmond or San Jose?
What is the hourly rate difference between Richmond and San Jose?
Should I relocate from Richmond to San Jose as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Richmond vs San Jose?
Related Comparisons
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