Franklin vs Memphis: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Franklin, TN and Memphis, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Franklin, TN | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $146,742▲ | $132,901 |
| Hourly Rate | $70.55▲ | $63.90 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $85,110▲ | $50,090 |
| 25th Percentile | $119,133▲ | $54,095 |
| 75th Percentile | $178,524▲ | $165,827 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $217,250▲ | $173,333 |
| Total Employed | 18 | 110▲ |
Verdict
Franklin, TN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Memphis.
The salary gap between Franklin and Memphis is $13,841 (10.41%). Franklin's median is +4.36% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Franklin spans $132,140,Memphis spans $123,243. Franklin 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, Franklin ($159,850 effective) pays 10.87% more than Memphis ($144,177 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Franklin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($146,742/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($217,250)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $159,850)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Franklin grew 24.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 35.6% growth in Memphis over the same period.
Franklin, TN
$114,928 (2024) → $142,523 (2025)
Memphis, TN
$95,170 (2019) → $129,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Franklin, TN
Memphis, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Franklin or Memphis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Franklin and Memphis?
Should I relocate from Franklin to Memphis as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Franklin vs Memphis?
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