Salem vs Worcester: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Salem, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Salem, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $149,322 | $154,028▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $71.79 | $74.05▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $89,309 | $93,982▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $124,093 | $134,116▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $174,146▲ | $169,596 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $221,274▲ | $193,060 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 90▲ |
Verdict
Worcester, MA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Salem.
The salary gap between Salem and Worcester is $4,706 (3.15%). Worcester's median is +9.54% 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,Worcester spans $99,078. 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, Worcester ($150,238 effective) pays 9.17% 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…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($221,274)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($154,028/year)
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $150,238)
- ✓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 32.1% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Salem, MA
$156,813 (2024) → $145,029 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$113,250 (2019) → $149,600 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Salem or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Salem and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Salem to Worcester as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Salem vs Worcester?
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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