Virginia Beach vs Williamsburg: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Virginia Beach, VA and Williamsburg, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Virginia Beach, VA | Williamsburg, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $155,994▲ | $137,415 |
| Hourly Rate | $75.00▲ | $66.07 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $90,476▲ | $79,700 |
| 25th Percentile | $121,005▲ | $109,869 |
| 75th Percentile | $191,627▲ | $157,198 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $237,856▲ | $196,257 |
| Total Employed | 97▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Virginia Beach, VA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Williamsburg.
The salary gap between Virginia Beach and Williamsburg is $18,579 (13.52%). Virginia Beach's median is +10.94% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Virginia Beach spans $147,380,Williamsburg spans $116,557. Virginia Beach 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, Virginia Beach ($151,157 effective) pays 13.52% more than Williamsburg ($133,154 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Virginia Beach if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($155,994/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($237,856)
- ✓Larger job market (97 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $151,157)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Williamsburg if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Virginia Beach grew 27.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 1.2% growth in Williamsburg over the same period.
Virginia Beach, VA
$119,050 (2019) → $151,509 (2025)
Williamsburg, VA
$131,930 (2024) → $133,464 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Virginia Beach, VA
Williamsburg, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Virginia Beach or Williamsburg?
What is the hourly rate difference between Virginia Beach and Williamsburg?
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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