Waltham vs Worcester: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Waltham, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Waltham, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $150,806 | $154,028▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $72.50 | $74.05▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,468 | $93,982▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $121,520 | $134,116▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $185,626▲ | $169,596 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $222,132▲ | $193,060 |
| Total Employed | 11 | 90▲ |
Verdict
Worcester, MA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Waltham.
The salary gap between Waltham and Worcester is $3,222 (2.14%). 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 Waltham spans $134,664,Worcester spans $99,078. Waltham 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 8.09% more than Waltham ($138,992 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Waltham if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($222,132)
- ✓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 Waltham grew -7.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.1% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Waltham, MA
$158,371 (2024) → $146,470 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$113,250 (2019) → $149,600 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Waltham, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Waltham or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Waltham and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Waltham to Worcester as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Waltham vs Worcester?
Related Comparisons
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