Bowie vs Hagerstown: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Bowie, MD and Hagerstown, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bowie, MD | Hagerstown, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $152,938▲ | $148,643 |
| Hourly Rate | $73.52▲ | $71.46 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $88,704▲ | $86,214 |
| 25th Percentile | $118,144 | $120,877▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $183,214▲ | $179,482 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $221,872▲ | $216,462 |
| Total Employed | 10▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Bowie, MD offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hagerstown.
The salary gap between Bowie and Hagerstown is $4,295 (2.89%). Bowie's median is +8.77% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bowie spans $133,168,Hagerstown spans $130,248. Bowie 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, Bowie ($139,925 effective) pays 2.89% more than Hagerstown ($135,995 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bowie if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($152,938/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($221,872)
- ✓Larger job market (10 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $139,925)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Hagerstown if…
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Bowie grew -5.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.2% growth in Hagerstown over the same period.
Bowie, MD
$157,710 (2024) → $148,541 (2025)
Hagerstown, MD
$128,700 (2019) → $144,370 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hagerstown, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
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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