Optometrist Salary in Virginia
Optometrist pay in Virginia, explained
Optometrists in Virginia earn a median of $131,570 per year ($63.25 per hour), which is 4% below the national median of $136,570. Entry-level workers earn around $62,430, while the most experienced optometrists reach about $235,980. Pay varies by employer, setting, and metro area within Virginia.
Is $131,570 good pay in Virginia?
Adjusted for Virginia's cost of living (which runs 101% of the U.S. average), that $131,570 is worth about $130,133 in national buying power — ranking Virginia #38 for real pay (vs #34 on the sticker number).
Optometrist pay by experience in Virginia
Optometrist pay in neighboring states
| State | Median / yr | Real pay | vs VA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia (here) | $131,570 | $130,133 | — |
| Maryland | $165,840 | $158,005 | −$34,270 |
| North Carolina | $161,560 | $171,278 | −$29,990 |
| District of Columbia | $134,840 | $122,692 | −$3,270 |
| Tennessee | $134,170 | $146,043 | −$2,600 |
| Kentucky | $128,860 | $142,925 | +$2,710 |
| West Virginia | $118,010 | $131,859 | +$13,560 |
Optometrist in Virginia: FAQ
How much do optometrists make in Virginia?
Optometrists in Virginia earn a median of $131,570 per year ($63.25 per hour), compared with $136,570 nationally.
Does Virginia pay optometrists well?
At $131,570, Virginia pays 4% below the national median for optometrists. An estimated 1,110 work in the state.