Albany vs Columbus: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Albany, GA and Columbus, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Albany, GA | Columbus, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $138,224▲ | $125,436 |
| Hourly Rate | $66.45▲ | $60.30 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,803▲ | $80,700 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,954 | $108,159▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $138,224 | $138,389▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $151,176 | $183,598▲ |
| Total Employed | 40▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Albany, GA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbus.
The salary gap between Albany and Columbus is $12,788 (10.19%). Albany's median is -1.70% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Albany spans $70,373,Columbus spans $102,898. Columbus has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Albany ($157,666 effective) pays 12.24% more than Columbus ($140,472 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Albany if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,224/year)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $157,666)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($183,598)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Albany grew 16.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -0.3% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Albany, GA
$115,760 (2019) → $134,250 (2025)
Columbus, GA
$122,173 (2024) → $121,830 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Albany, GA
Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Albany or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Albany and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Albany to Columbus as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Albany vs Columbus?
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Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov