Jacksonville vs Raleigh: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Jacksonville, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jacksonville, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $168,952▲ | $168,123 |
| Hourly Rate | $81.23▲ | $80.83 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $97,992 | $103,207▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $132,526▲ | $129,452 |
| 75th Percentile | $200,646 | $205,961▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $242,834▲ | $220,190 |
| Total Employed | 17 | 240▲ |
Verdict
Jacksonville, NC offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Raleigh.
The salary gap between Jacksonville and Raleigh is $829 (0.49%). Jacksonville's median is +20.15% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jacksonville spans $144,842,Raleigh spans $116,983. Jacksonville 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, Jacksonville ($180,504 effective) pays 5.39% more than Raleigh ($171,280 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jacksonville if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($168,952/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($242,834)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $180,504)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Larger job market (240 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Jacksonville grew 34.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 61.2% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Jacksonville, NC
$122,280 (2024) → $164,095 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$101,270 (2019) → $163,290 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jacksonville, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Jacksonville or Raleigh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jacksonville and Raleigh?
Should I relocate from Jacksonville to Raleigh as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Jacksonville vs Raleigh?
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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