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Job outlook for optometrists in the United States
Optometrist job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected optometrist job growth rate is 10% from 2018-2028.
About 4,000 new jobs for optometrists are projected over the next decade.
Optometrist salaries have increased 11% for optometrists in the last 5 years.
There are over 35,141 optometrists currently employed in the United States.
There are 20,993 active optometrist job openings in the US.
The average optometrist salary is $187,654.
Are optometrist jobs in demand?
Optometrist job and salary trends over time
Optometrist jobs over time
Optometrist job growth rate over time
Year  | # Of Jobs | % Of Population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 35,141 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 33,299 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 35,777 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 43,394 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 41,986 | 0.01% |
Average optometrist salary over time
Optometrist salary by year
| Year | Avg. Salary | Hourly Rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $187,654 | $90.22 | +2.4% |
| 2024 | $183,203 | $88.08 | +3.1% |
| 2023 | $177,703 | $85.43 | +1.4% |
| 2022 | $175,334 | $84.30 | +3.9% |
| 2021 | $168,722 | $81.12 | +2.2% |
Optometrist jobs by state
Most common states for optometrists
| Rank | State | Population | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 56 | 3% |
| 2 | Wisconsin | 5,795,483 | 107 | 2% |
| 3 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 105 | 2% |
| 4 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 100 | 2% |
| 5 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 81 | 2% |
| 6 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 68 | 2% |
| 7 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 54 | 2% |
| 8 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 40 | 2% |
| 9 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 39 | 2% |
| 10 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 27 | 2% |
| 11 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 26 | 2% |
| 12 | Alaska | 739,795 | 14 | 2% |
| 13 | Vermont | 623,657 | 11 | 2% |
| 14 | New York | 19,849,399 | 206 | 1% |
| 15 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 132 | 1% |
| 16 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 115 | 1% |
| 17 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 71 | 1% |
| 18 | Kentucky | 4,454,189 | 47 | 1% |
| 19 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 7 | 1% |
| 20 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 5 | 1% |
Most common cities for optometrists
| Rank | City | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Daytona Beach | 4 | 6% | $164,026 |
| 2 | Schaumburg | 4 | 5% | $185,478 |
| 3 | Lafayette | 5 | 4% | $157,265 |
| 4 | Birmingham | 6 | 3% | $170,169 |
| 5 | Fort Wayne | 5 | 2% | $174,352 |
| 6 | Orlando | 5 | 2% | $161,025 |
| 7 | Saint Petersburg | 4 | 2% | $157,512 |
| 8 | Santa Rosa | 4 | 2% | $155,620 |
| 9 | Fresno | 7 | 1% | $154,813 |
| 10 | Tucson | 7 | 1% | $152,409 |
| 11 | Baltimore | 6 | 1% | $180,291 |
| 12 | Jacksonville | 6 | 1% | $166,925 |
| 13 | Miami | 6 | 1% | $151,073 |
| 14 | Sacramento | 6 | 1% | $156,191 |
| 15 | Bakersfield | 5 | 1% | $153,641 |
| 16 | Boston | 5 | 1% | $154,730 |
| 17 | Los Angeles | 7 | 0% | $152,396 |
| 18 | Phoenix | 7 | 0% | $153,735 |
| 19 | Chicago | 6 | 0% | $185,070 |
| 20 | Indianapolis | 4 | 0% | $174,330 |
Optometrist job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of optometrist experts
Marshall B. Ketchum University
University of Alabama at Birmingham
The University of Alabama at Birmingham
What general advice would you give to an Optometrist?
Mark Nakano OD: Being a lifelong learner is always an important attribute so that you stay current with the evolution of the profession. A special skill set would include being able to utilize technology in clinical care. More equipment that incorporates technology is prevalent and will improve the outcomes for patients. I believe that connecting with your patient and establishing a trusting relationship will remain the most important piece.
What Optometrist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Mark Nakano OD: Increasing your earning potential will come with your efficiency and your clinical skill set. The more areas that you can add to a practice the better you should do financially. For example, adding glaucoma care, eye disease, myopia management, specialty contact lenses, or dry eye services to a practice that does not offer those services will be tremendous. The idea is to become an asset not a liability.
What will help Optometrists increase their earning potential?
Mark Nakano OD: Optometrists are in need and there has not been a time where the demand has been this high. I always tell my students to pick where you want to live first and then look for a job. Regardless of what type of practice you start with, you will learn something from the experience. It is not where you practice, it is how you practice.
Michael Rothschild
Clinical Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham
Deptartament of Optometry and Vision Science
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Optometrist job market given the pandemic?
Michael Rothschild: In my opinion, the biggest trends we will see in the job market, given the pandemic, is more caution in hiring. There hasn't been a decrease in the demand for optometrists in the job market, the need continues to only grow. However, people aren't as anxious to stretch their budgets, add that new doctor. People looking to hire OD's will be more cautious, more careful to make sure they are hiring the right person. Optometrists who are looking for work, should take extra time to make sure they are putting their best foot forward. Return phone calls, respond to emails in a timely manner and be professional in conversations with potential employers.
What skills stand out on Optometrist resumes?
Michael Rothschild: In today's environment, anything that shows "flexibility" stands out on a resume. The eye care world is changing fast and employers need to know that their optometrists can change roles quickly and effectively. Resumes should highlight special skills like teleoptometry, speciality contact lenses or low vision. Demonstrate your interest in the vast experiences you can have in delivering optometric care.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Optometrists to find work opportunities?
Michael Rothschild: The best places to find opportunities in optometry are in rural areas. These areas are underserved in all aspects of medical care, including eye care. The need is great and OD's can practice full-scope medical care while appreciating respect from other medical providers in the area.
What are the best companies to work for an Optometrist?
Trenton Cleghern: It would be hard to say the best "companies." Optometrists work in various practices ranging from private practice, hospital, commercial, and academic institutions. It depends on what you are looking for in your career. I would say the rules that allow you to practice high-quality medical eye care are the best practices.