Seattle vs Auburn: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Seattle, WA and Auburn, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Seattle, WA | Auburn, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $172,777▲ | $149,274 |
| Hourly Rate | $83.07▲ | $71.76 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $124,942▲ | $86,579 |
| 25th Percentile | $138,615▲ | $119,799 |
| 75th Percentile | $206,775▲ | $183,311 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $234,275▲ | $224,033 |
| Total Employed | 420▲ | 23 |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Auburn.
The salary gap between Seattle and Auburn is $23,503 (15.74%). Seattle's median is +22.88% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Seattle spans $109,333,Auburn spans $137,454. Auburn 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, Seattle ($155,469 effective) pays 11.86% more than Auburn ($138,989 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($172,777/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($234,275)
- ✓Larger job market (420 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $155,469)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Auburn if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Seattle grew 39.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -7.7% growth in Auburn over the same period.
Seattle, WA
$120,070 (2019) → $167,810 (2025)
Auburn, WA
$157,117 (2024) → $144,983 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Seattle, WA
Auburn, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Seattle or Auburn?
What is the hourly rate difference between Seattle and Auburn?
Should I relocate from Seattle to Auburn as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Seattle vs Auburn?
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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