Charlotte vs Hickory: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Charlotte, NC and Hickory, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charlotte, NC | Hickory, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $161,863▲ | $140,973 |
| Hourly Rate | $77.82▲ | $67.78 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,443 | $112,381▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $105,688 | $140,973▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $181,323▲ | $140,973 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $216,000▲ | $199,022 |
| Total Employed | 260▲ | 40 |
Verdict
Charlotte, NC offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hickory.
The salary gap between Charlotte and Hickory is $20,890 (14.82%). Charlotte's median is +15.11% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Charlotte spans $175,557,Hickory spans $86,641. Charlotte 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, Charlotte ($166,273 effective) pays 4.37% more than Hickory ($159,317 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Charlotte if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($161,863/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($216,000)
- ✓Larger job market (260 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $166,273)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Hickory if…
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Charlotte grew 28.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 76.3% growth in Hickory over the same period.
Charlotte, NC
$122,600 (2019) → $157,210 (2025)
Hickory, NC
$77,660 (2019) → $136,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charlotte, NC
Hickory, NC
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