Rapid City vs Watertown: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Rapid City, SD and Watertown, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rapid City, SD | Watertown, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,000▲ | $125,470 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.46▲ | $60.32 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,560▲ | $73,218 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,605▲ | $102,728 |
| 75th Percentile | $160,716▲ | $148,276 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $196,312▲ | $175,669 |
| Total Employed | 16▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Rapid City, SD offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Watertown.
The salary gap between Rapid City and Watertown is $6,530 (5.20%). Rapid City's median is -6.12% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rapid City spans $119,752,Watertown spans $102,451. Rapid City 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, Rapid City ($142,241 effective) pays 5.20% more than Watertown ($135,205 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rapid City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,000/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($196,312)
- ✓Larger job market (16 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,241)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Watertown if…
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Rapid City grew 37.1% from 2023 to 2025, compared to 9.3% growth in Watertown over the same period.
Rapid City, SD
$93,480 (2023) → $128,205 (2025)
Watertown, SD
$111,539 (2024) → $121,863 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rapid City, SD
Watertown, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Rapid City or Watertown?
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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