Oneonta vs Rochester: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Oneonta, NY and Rochester, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Oneonta, NY | Rochester, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $155,114 | $164,098▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $74.57 | $78.89▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $95,079 | $101,961▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $130,809▲ | $130,327 |
| 75th Percentile | $183,596▲ | $172,808 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $217,640▲ | $193,246 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 120▲ |
Verdict
Rochester, NY offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Oneonta.
The salary gap between Oneonta and Rochester is $8,984 (5.79%). Rochester's median is +16.70% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Oneonta spans $122,561,Rochester spans $91,285. Oneonta 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, Rochester ($169,112 effective) pays 26.36% more than Oneonta ($133,834 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Oneonta if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($217,640)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($164,098/year)
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $169,112)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Oneonta grew -7.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 38.6% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Oneonta, NY
$162,236 (2024) → $150,655 (2025)
Rochester, NY
$114,990 (2019) → $159,380 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Oneonta, NY
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Oneonta or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Oneonta and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Oneonta to Rochester as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Oneonta vs Rochester?
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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