What is the median salary for Optometrists in New York City, New York?

According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Optometrists in the New York City metropolitan area is $160,520.

Does New York City pay more than the New York state average for Optometrists?

The New York City metro median is -1.5% versus the New York state median of $163,040.

How does New York City compare to the national median for Optometrists?

The New York City metro median is +21.7% versus the BLS national figure of $131,844.

What is the salary range for Optometrists in New York City?

BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $105,100 and the 90th-percentile at $195,670 for the New York City metro area.

What education is required for Optometrists?

BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Doctoral or professional degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.

Optometrists Salary in New York City, New York

Median annual$160,520

Mean annual$154,620

Range (10th to 90th)$105,100 to $195,670

New York City, New York employment2,410

State vs national+21.7% vs national

Salary distribution

Where New York City optometrists fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)

The middle 50% of workers earn between $145,600 and $166,840, with a median of $160,520.

Typical entry

Education
Doctoral or professional degree
Experience
None
On-the-job training
None

Top skills (O*NET)

Medicine and Dentistry
Knowledge
4.8 / 5
Biology
Knowledge
4.5 / 5
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge
4.4 / 5
Reading Comprehension
Basic skill
4.1 / 5
Active Listening
Basic skill
4.1 / 5
Critical Thinking
Cross-functional
4.1 / 5
Oral Expression
Ability
4.1 / 5
Problem Sensitivity
Ability
4.1 / 5

Common tasks (O*NET)

01
Examine eyes, using observation, instruments, and pharmaceutical agents, to determine visual acuity and perception, focus, and coordination and to diagnose diseases and other abnormalities, such as glaucoma or color blindness.
02
Analyze test results and develop a treatment plan.
03
Prescribe, supply, fit and adjust eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other vision aids.
04
Prescribe medications to treat eye diseases if state laws permit.
05
Educate and counsel patients on contact lens care, visual hygiene, lighting arrangements, and safety factors.
06
Remove foreign bodies from the eye.
07
Provide patients undergoing eye surgeries, such as cataract and laser vision correction, with pre- and post-operative care.
08
Consult with and refer patients to ophthalmologist or other health care practitioner if additional medical treatment is determined necessary.

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Other metros in New York

How the New York City metro compares to other major New York metro areas for optometrists.

Buffalo$160,390

Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Optometrists in New York City, New York?: According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Optometrists in the New York City metropolitan area is $160,520.
Does New York City pay more than the New York state average for Optometrists?: The New York City metro median is -1.5% versus the New York state median of $163,040.
How does New York City compare to the national median for Optometrists?: The New York City metro median is +21.7% versus the BLS national figure of $131,844.
What is the salary range for Optometrists in New York City?: BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $105,100 and the 90th-percentile at $195,670 for the New York City metro area.
What education is required for Optometrists?: BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Doctoral or professional degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.

Disclaimer

Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the New York City CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.