Roanoke vs Waynesboro: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Roanoke, VA and Waynesboro, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Roanoke, VA | Waynesboro, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $149,189▲ | $137,862 |
| Hourly Rate | $71.72▲ | $66.28 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,620 | $79,960▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $106,924 | $110,786▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $242,965▲ | $158,134 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $404,756▲ | $197,747 |
| Total Employed | 40▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Roanoke, VA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waynesboro.
The salary gap between Roanoke and Waynesboro is $11,327 (8.22%). Roanoke's median is +6.10% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Roanoke spans $342,136,Waynesboro spans $117,787. Roanoke 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, Roanoke ($159,359 effective) pays 19.29% more than Waynesboro ($133,587 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Roanoke if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($149,189/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($404,756)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $159,359)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Waynesboro if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Roanoke grew 28.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 1.2% growth in Waynesboro over the same period.
Roanoke, VA
$112,640 (2019) → $144,900 (2025)
Waynesboro, VA
$132,359 (2024) → $133,899 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Roanoke, VA
Waynesboro, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Roanoke or Waynesboro?
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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