Optometrist Hourly Pay in Maricopa, AZ: $67.50 (2026)

In Maricopa, Arizona, the optometrist hourly pay is projected to reach a median rate of $67.50 in 2026, slightly below the national average of $67.60. This hourly rate enables various working arrangements, particularly benefiting part-time employees who might typically work three days a week. For those opting for per-diem positions in settings such as private optometry clinics, retail optical chains, and VA outpatient eye clinics, the compensation can be particularly appealing. Entry-level optometrists can expect to earn around $39.15 per hour, while seasoned professionals at the top of the pay scale can earn up to $98.03 per hour, reflecting the diverse earning potential within the region.

Part-time optometrists working a three-day week in Maricopa could realistically take home approximately $104,520 annually, significantly less than their full-time counterparts but still competitive. For those pursuing per-diem work, rates vary widely; fill-in optometrists at retail chains may earn between $500-$800 per day, whereas those covering specialist practices can see rates rise to between $700-$1,200 per day. Degrees or specialized training, such as residency experience, can command higher hourly rates, particularly in hospital settings where experienced ocular disease ODs often earn between $90-$130 per hour. Additionally, hourly rates fluctuate across employment types like private optometry practices versus retail chains, with health benefits sometimes influencing compensation decisions. Optometrists in Maricopa should carefully weigh the pros and cons of hourly pay versus benefits when evaluating job offers and consider their negotiation strategies, focusing on unfilled demand for optometric services in the community.