Sacramento vs Modesto: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Sacramento, CA and Modesto, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Sacramento, CA | Modesto, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $143,135▲ | $141,549 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.82▲ | $68.05 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $108,993▲ | $108,736 |
| 25th Percentile | $124,283▲ | $122,883 |
| 75th Percentile | $190,805 | $194,172▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $225,554▲ | $214,332 |
| Total Employed | 510▲ | 90 |
Verdict
Sacramento, CA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Modesto.
The salary gap between Sacramento and Modesto is $1,586 (1.12%). Sacramento's median is +1.79% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Sacramento spans $116,561,Modesto spans $105,596. Sacramento 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, Modesto ($135,964 effective) pays 1.33% more than Sacramento ($134,185 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Sacramento if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($143,135/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($225,554)
- ✓Larger job market (510 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Modesto if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $135,964)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Sacramento grew 15.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 10.5% growth in Modesto over the same period.
Sacramento, CA
$120,210 (2019) → $139,020 (2025)
Modesto, CA
$124,370 (2019) → $137,480 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Sacramento, CA
Modesto, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Sacramento or Modesto?
What is the hourly rate difference between Sacramento and Modesto?
Should I relocate from Sacramento to Modesto as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Sacramento vs Modesto?
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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