Salem vs Springfield: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Salem, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Salem, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $149,322▲ | $140,726 |
| Hourly Rate | $71.79▲ | $67.66 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $89,309▲ | $87,217 |
| 25th Percentile | $124,093▲ | $114,203 |
| 75th Percentile | $174,146▲ | $162,821 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $221,274▲ | $180,860 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 30▲ |
Verdict
Salem, MA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Salem and Springfield is $8,596 (6.11%). Salem's median is +6.19% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Salem spans $131,965,Springfield spans $93,643. Salem 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, Springfield ($146,496 effective) pays 6.45% more than Salem ($137,624 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($149,322/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($221,274)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $146,496)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Salem grew -7.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 10.0% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Salem, MA
$156,813 (2024) → $145,029 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$124,300 (2019) → $136,680 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Salem or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Salem and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Salem to Springfield as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Salem vs Springfield?
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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