Richmond vs Salem: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Richmond, VA and Salem, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Richmond, VA | Salem, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,960 | $140,697▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $64.89 | $67.64▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,894 | $81,604▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $123,398▲ | $117,994 |
| 75th Percentile | $162,543 | $165,124▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $197,446▲ | $196,549 |
| Total Employed | 180▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Richmond and Salem are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Richmond and Salem is $5,737 (4.25%). Salem's median is +0.06% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Richmond spans $131,552,Salem spans $114,945. 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, Richmond ($137,914 effective) pays 1.16% more than Salem ($136,334 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($197,446)
- ✓Larger job market (180 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $137,914)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($140,697/year)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Richmond grew 24.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 1.2% growth in Salem over the same period.
Richmond, VA
$105,020 (2019) → $131,080 (2025)
Salem, VA
$135,081 (2024) → $136,652 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Richmond, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Richmond or Salem?
What is the hourly rate difference between Richmond and Salem?
Should I relocate from Richmond to Salem as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Richmond vs Salem?
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