Cleveland vs Lakewood: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Cleveland, OH and Lakewood, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cleveland, OH | Lakewood, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $139,902▲ | $136,624 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.26▲ | $65.69 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,954 | $79,242▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $95,619 | $105,514▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $162,728 | $163,591▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $174,229 | $207,276▲ |
| Total Employed | 250▲ | 11 |
Verdict
Cleveland, OH offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Lakewood.
The salary gap between Cleveland and Lakewood is $3,278 (2.40%). Cleveland's median is -0.50% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cleveland spans $106,275,Lakewood spans $128,034. Lakewood 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, Lakewood ($150,633 effective) pays 1.13% 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 Cleveland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($139,902/year)
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Lakewood if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($207,276)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $150,633)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Cleveland grew 21.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.1% growth in Lakewood over the same period.
Cleveland, OH
$112,060 (2019) → $135,880 (2025)
Lakewood, OH
$117,315 (2024) → $132,696 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cleveland, OH
Lakewood, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Cleveland or Lakewood?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cleveland and Lakewood?
Should I relocate from Cleveland to Lakewood as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Cleveland vs Lakewood?
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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