Ellensburg vs Spokane: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Ellensburg, WA and Spokane, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ellensburg, WA | Spokane, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $144,064▲ | $129,915 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.26▲ | $62.46 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,557 | $90,790▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $116,512▲ | $107,552 |
| 75th Percentile | $168,895▲ | $160,041 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $199,513▲ | $166,981 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 60▲ |
Verdict
Ellensburg, WA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Spokane.
The salary gap between Ellensburg and Spokane is $14,149 (10.89%). Ellensburg's median is +2.45% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ellensburg spans $115,956,Spokane spans $76,191. Ellensburg 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, Ellensburg ($134,138 effective) pays 3.61% more than Spokane ($129,467 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ellensburg if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($144,064/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($199,513)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $134,138)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Spokane if…
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Ellensburg grew -7.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 8.2% growth in Spokane over the same period.
Ellensburg, WA
$151,632 (2024) → $139,922 (2025)
Spokane, WA
$116,580 (2019) → $126,180 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ellensburg, WA
Spokane, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Ellensburg or Spokane?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ellensburg and Spokane?
Should I relocate from Ellensburg to Spokane as a optometrist?
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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