Athens vs Columbus: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Athens, OH and Columbus, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Athens, OH | Columbus, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $127,411 | $137,318▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $61.25 | $66.02▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,899▲ | $69,344 |
| 25th Percentile | $103,675 | $121,225▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $149,964 | $170,903▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $177,409 | $218,255▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 260▲ |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Athens.
The salary gap between Athens and Columbus is $9,907 (7.78%). Columbus's median is -2.34% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Athens spans $103,510,Columbus spans $148,911. 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, Columbus ($143,835 effective) pays 2.39% more than Athens ($140,475 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Athens if…
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($137,318/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($218,255)
- ✓Larger job market (260 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $143,835)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Athens grew 13.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.6% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Athens, OH
$109,403 (2024) → $123,748 (2025)
Columbus, OH
$116,410 (2019) → $133,370 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Athens, OH
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Athens or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Athens and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Athens to Columbus as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Athens 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