Pittsburgh vs Reading: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Pittsburgh, PA and Reading, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pittsburgh, PA | Reading, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $133,745 | $143,526▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $64.30 | $69.00▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $97,565▲ | $89,349 |
| 25th Percentile | $121,081 | $130,605▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $164,540 | $167,804▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $169,524 | $194,172▲ |
| Total Employed | 340▲ | 40 |
Verdict
Reading, PA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Pittsburgh.
The salary gap between Pittsburgh and Reading is $9,781 (7.31%). Reading's median is +2.07% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Pittsburgh spans $71,959,Reading spans $104,823. Reading 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, Reading ($147,873 effective) pays 4.67% more than Pittsburgh ($141,273 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Pittsburgh if…
- ✓Larger job market (340 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Reading if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($143,526/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($194,172)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $147,873)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Pittsburgh grew 13.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 40.6% growth in Reading over the same period.
Pittsburgh, PA
$114,280 (2019) → $129,900 (2025)
Reading, PA
$99,180 (2021) → $139,400 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pittsburgh, PA
Reading, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Pittsburgh or Reading?
What is the hourly rate difference between Pittsburgh and Reading?
Should I relocate from Pittsburgh to Reading as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Pittsburgh vs Reading?
Related Comparisons
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