Ashland vs Eugene: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Ashland, OR and Eugene, OR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ashland, OR | Eugene, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,746▲ | $129,482 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.74▲ | $62.25 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,313 | $83,295▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $114,872▲ | $105,050 |
| 75th Percentile | $156,383▲ | $144,072 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $195,878▲ | $162,944 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 40▲ |
Verdict
Ashland, OR offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Eugene.
The salary gap between Ashland and Eugene is $7,264 (5.61%). Ashland's median is -2.75% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ashland spans $116,565,Eugene spans $79,649. Ashland 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, Ashland ($133,281 effective) pays 4.55% more than Eugene ($127,483 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ashland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($136,746/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($195,878)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $133,281)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Choose Eugene if…
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Ashland grew -1.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.0% growth in Eugene over the same period.
Ashland, OR
$134,205 (2024) → $132,815 (2025)
Eugene, OR
$95,260 (2019) → $125,760 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ashland, OR
Eugene, OR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Ashland or Eugene?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ashland and Eugene?
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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