Watertown vs Yankton: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Watertown, SD and Yankton, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Watertown, SD | Yankton, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $125,470▲ | $125,431 |
| Hourly Rate | $60.32▲ | $60.30 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,218▲ | $73,127 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,728▲ | $102,647 |
| 75th Percentile | $148,276▲ | $145,521 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $175,669▲ | $171,238 |
| Total Employed | 6▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Watertown, SD offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Yankton.
The salary gap between Watertown and Yankton is $39 (0.03%). Watertown's median is -10.77% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Watertown spans $102,451,Yankton spans $98,111. Watertown 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, Watertown ($135,205 effective) pays 0.03% more than Yankton ($135,163 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Watertown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($125,470/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($175,669)
- ✓Larger job market (6 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $135,205)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Yankton if…
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Watertown grew 9.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.3% growth in Yankton over the same period.
Watertown, SD
$111,539 (2024) → $121,863 (2025)
Yankton, SD
$111,504 (2024) → $121,825 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Watertown, SD
Yankton, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Watertown or Yankton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Watertown and Yankton?
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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