Tacoma vs Tumwater: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Tacoma, WA and Tumwater, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Tacoma, WA | Tumwater, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $169,895▲ | $148,290 |
| Hourly Rate | $81.68▲ | $71.29 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $98,539▲ | $86,009 |
| 25th Percentile | $133,683▲ | $122,773 |
| 75th Percentile | $214,437▲ | $172,410 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $263,338▲ | $219,423 |
| Total Employed | 56▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Tacoma, WA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Tumwater.
The salary gap between Tacoma and Tumwater is $21,605 (14.57%). Tacoma's median is +20.83% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Tacoma spans $164,799,Tumwater spans $133,414. Tacoma 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, Tacoma ($158,189 effective) pays 14.57% more than Tumwater ($138,073 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Tacoma if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($169,895/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($263,338)
- ✓Larger job market (56 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $158,189)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Tumwater if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Tacoma grew 2.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -7.4% growth in Tumwater over the same period.
Tacoma, WA
$160,990 (2024) → $165,011 (2025)
Tumwater, WA
$155,596 (2024) → $144,027 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Tacoma, WA
Tumwater, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Tacoma or Tumwater?
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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