Alexandria vs Virginia Beach: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Alexandria, VA and Virginia Beach, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Alexandria, VA | Virginia Beach, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $157,924▲ | $155,994 |
| Hourly Rate | $75.92▲ | $75.00 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $91,596▲ | $90,476 |
| 25th Percentile | $127,624▲ | $121,005 |
| 75th Percentile | $194,607▲ | $191,627 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $239,641▲ | $237,856 |
| Total Employed | 26 | 97▲ |
Verdict
Alexandria, VA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Virginia Beach.
The salary gap between Alexandria and Virginia Beach is $1,930 (1.24%). Alexandria's median is +12.31% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Alexandria spans $148,045,Virginia Beach spans $147,380. Alexandria has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Alexandria ($153,027 effective) pays 1.24% more than Virginia Beach ($151,157 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Alexandria if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($157,924/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($239,641)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $153,027)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Virginia Beach if…
- ✓Larger job market (97 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Alexandria grew 9.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 27.3% growth in Virginia Beach over the same period.
Alexandria, VA
$139,526 (2024) → $153,384 (2025)
Virginia Beach, VA
$119,050 (2019) → $151,509 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Alexandria, VA
Virginia Beach, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Alexandria or Virginia Beach?
What is the hourly rate difference between Alexandria and Virginia Beach?
Should I relocate from Alexandria to Virginia Beach as a optometrist?
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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