Cincinnati vs Cleveland: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Cincinnati, OH and Cleveland, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cincinnati, OH | Cleveland, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $161,637▲ | $139,902 |
| Hourly Rate | $77.71▲ | $67.26 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,736▲ | $67,954 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,153▲ | $95,619 |
| 75th Percentile | $174,816▲ | $162,728 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $256,895▲ | $174,229 |
| Total Employed | 300▲ | 250 |
Verdict
Cincinnati, OH offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Cleveland.
The salary gap between Cincinnati and Cleveland is $21,735 (15.54%). Cincinnati's median is +14.95% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cincinnati spans $188,159,Cleveland spans $106,275. Cincinnati 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, Cincinnati ($169,484 effective) pays 13.78% more than Cleveland ($148,954 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cincinnati if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($161,637/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($256,895)
- ✓Larger job market (300 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $169,484)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Cleveland if…
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Cincinnati grew 31.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 21.3% growth in Cleveland over the same period.
Cincinnati, OH
$119,620 (2019) → $156,990 (2025)
Cleveland, OH
$112,060 (2019) → $135,880 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cincinnati, OH
Cleveland, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Cincinnati or Cleveland?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cincinnati and Cleveland?
Should I relocate from Cincinnati to Cleveland as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Cincinnati vs Cleveland?
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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