San Jose vs Oxnard: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between San Jose, CA and Oxnard, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Jose, CA | Oxnard, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $139,336▲ | $132,973 |
| Hourly Rate | $66.99▲ | $63.93 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $138,347▲ | $106,862 |
| 25th Percentile | $138,347▲ | $126,105 |
| 75th Percentile | $174,157▲ | $169,349 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $213,869▲ | $209,802 |
| Total Employed | 580▲ | 120 |
Verdict
San Jose, CA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Oxnard.
The salary gap between San Jose and Oxnard is $6,363 (4.79%). San Jose's median is -0.91% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Jose spans $75,522,Oxnard spans $102,940. Oxnard has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, San Jose ($126,184 effective) pays 4.89% more than Oxnard ($120,301 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose San Jose if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($139,336/year)
- ✓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
Choose Oxnard if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in San Jose grew 10.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 31.1% growth in Oxnard over the same period.
San Jose, CA
$122,740 (2019) → $135,330 (2025)
Oxnard, CA
$98,530 (2019) → $129,150 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Jose, CA
Oxnard, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: San Jose or Oxnard?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Jose and Oxnard?
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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