Atlanta vs Statesboro: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Atlanta, GA and Statesboro, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlanta, GA | Statesboro, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,643 | $133,165▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $63.77 | $64.02▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,540 | $77,235▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $100,520 | $107,278▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $166,095▲ | $159,810 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $195,222▲ | $192,311 |
| Total Employed | 450▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Atlanta and Statesboro are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Atlanta and Statesboro is $522 (0.39%). Statesboro's median is -5.30% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Atlanta spans $142,682,Statesboro spans $115,076. Atlanta 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, Statesboro ($143,034 effective) pays 7.90% more than Atlanta ($132,566 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Atlanta if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($195,222)
- ✓Larger job market (450 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Statesboro if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($133,165/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $143,034)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Atlanta grew 23.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 7.7% growth in Statesboro over the same period.
Atlanta, GA
$104,120 (2019) → $128,830 (2025)
Statesboro, GA
$120,052 (2024) → $129,337 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlanta, GA
Statesboro, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Atlanta or Statesboro?
What is the hourly rate difference between Atlanta and Statesboro?
Should I relocate from Atlanta to Statesboro as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Atlanta vs Statesboro?
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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