Optometrist Salary in North Carolina
Optometrist pay in North Carolina, explained
Optometrists in North Carolina earn a median of $161,560 per year ($77.67 per hour), which is 18% above the national median of $136,570. Entry-level workers earn around $94,320, while the most experienced optometrists reach about $215,340. Pay varies by employer, setting, and metro area within North Carolina.
Is $161,560 good pay in North Carolina?
Adjusted for North Carolina's cost of living (which runs 94% of the U.S. average), that $161,560 is worth about $171,278 in national buying power — ranking North Carolina #1 for real pay (vs #3 on the sticker number).
Optometrist pay by experience in North Carolina
Optometrist pay in neighboring states
| State | Median / yr | Real pay | vs NC |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina (here) | $161,560 | $171,278 | — |
| South Carolina | $145,950 | $155,682 | +$15,610 |
| Tennessee | $134,170 | $146,043 | +$27,390 |
| Virginia | $131,570 | $130,133 | +$29,990 |
| Georgia | $128,830 | $133,790 | +$32,730 |
Optometrist in North Carolina: FAQ
How much do optometrists make in North Carolina?
Optometrists in North Carolina earn a median of $161,560 per year ($77.67 per hour), compared with $136,570 nationally.
Does North Carolina pay optometrists well?
At $161,560, North Carolina pays 18% above the national median for optometrists. An estimated 1,140 work in the state.