Lancaster vs Philadelphia: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Lancaster, PA and Philadelphia, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lancaster, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,278 | $158,538▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $65.52 | $76.22▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $98,502▲ | $94,291 |
| 25th Percentile | $133,395▲ | $126,620 |
| 75th Percentile | $161,524 | $175,917▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $165,869 | $201,441▲ |
| Total Employed | 60 | 890▲ |
Verdict
Philadelphia, PA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lancaster.
The salary gap between Lancaster and Philadelphia is $22,260 (16.33%). Philadelphia's median is +12.75% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lancaster spans $67,367,Philadelphia spans $107,150. Philadelphia 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, Philadelphia ($154,590 effective) pays 11.46% more than Lancaster ($138,695 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lancaster if…
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Philadelphia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($158,538/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($201,441)
- ✓Larger job market (890 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $154,590)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Lancaster grew 7.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 14.4% growth in Philadelphia over the same period.
Lancaster, PA
$123,600 (2019) → $132,360 (2025)
Philadelphia, PA
$134,640 (2019) → $153,980 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lancaster, PA
Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Lancaster or Philadelphia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lancaster and Philadelphia?
Should I relocate from Lancaster to Philadelphia as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Lancaster vs Philadelphia?
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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