Optometrist Hourly Pay in Fargo, ND: $65.68 (2026)

Determining annual earnings from a part-time schedule yields significant insights into the financial landscape for optometrists. For example, a professional working 24 hours a week can expect to bring home approximately $81,000 annually, which still represents a solid income though it is significantly lower compared to full-time peers. Per diem optometrists in Fargo can command daily rates varying from $500 to $1,200, depending on the practice setting, with experienced ODs earning up to $130 per hour for fill-in roles at hospital systems. The disparity in hourly wages across employer types further underscores the importance of careful consideration when choosing between roles in private practices, retail chains, or more specialized settings like military health systems. While some optometrists may accept a lower hourly rate in exchange for benefits such as health insurance, others may prioritize higher pay with the flexibility of contract work. When negotiating hourly pay, it’s vital to be well-informed about local market rates and employer expectations, as well as to leverage one’s unique qualifications, such as residency training or specialized skill sets, to enhance overall compensation.