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METRO DATA PROFILE · 2024

Optometrists salary in Providence, Rhode Island

Metro-level median, range, and employment from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics for the Providence metropolitan area. Skills and task data from O*NET. State and national figures shown for context.

Adrian Serafin, founder and editor of RateOrchardBy Adrian SerafinFounderUpdated April 30, 2026
Median annual$140,450
Mean annual$143,810
Range (10th to 90th)$65,620 to $207,430
Providence, Rhode Island employment330
State vs national+6.5% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Providence optometrists fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

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

10TH$65,62025TH$101,760MEDIAN$140,45075TH$169,94090TH$207,430

The middle 50% of workers earn between $101,760 and $169,940, with a median of $140,450.

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)

  1. 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.

  2. 02

    Analyze test results and develop a treatment plan.

  3. 03

    Prescribe, supply, fit and adjust eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other vision aids.

  4. 04

    Prescribe medications to treat eye diseases if state laws permit.

  5. 05

    Educate and counsel patients on contact lens care, visual hygiene, lighting arrangements, and safety factors.

  6. 06

    Remove foreign bodies from the eye.

  7. 07

    Provide patients undergoing eye surgeries, such as cataract and laser vision correction, with pre- and post-operative care.

  8. 08

    Consult with and refer patients to ophthalmologist or other health care practitioner if additional medical treatment is determined necessary.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Optometrists in Providence, Rhode Island?
According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Optometrists in the Providence metropolitan area is $140,450.
Does Providence pay more than the Rhode Island state average for Optometrists?
The Providence metro median is -2.7% versus the Rhode Island state median of $144,360.
How does Providence compare to the national median for Optometrists?
The Providence metro median is +6.5% versus the BLS national figure of $131,844.
What is the salary range for Optometrists in Providence?
BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $65,620 and the 90th-percentile at $207,430 for the Providence 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 Providence 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.