San Francisco vs Modesto: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between San Francisco, CA and Modesto, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Francisco, CA | Modesto, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $146,800▲ | $141,549 |
| Hourly Rate | $70.58▲ | $68.05 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $110,970▲ | $108,736 |
| 25th Percentile | $132,715▲ | $122,883 |
| 75th Percentile | $178,388 | $194,172▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $227,902▲ | $214,332 |
| Total Employed | 1,180▲ | 90 |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Modesto.
The salary gap between San Francisco and Modesto is $5,251 (3.71%). San Francisco's median is +4.40% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Francisco spans $116,932,Modesto spans $105,596. San Francisco 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, Modesto ($135,964 effective) pays 7.08% more than San Francisco ($126,975 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose San Francisco if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($146,800/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($227,902)
- ✓Larger job market (1,180 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Modesto if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $135,964)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in San Francisco grew 16.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 10.5% growth in Modesto over the same period.
San Francisco, CA
$122,310 (2019) → $142,580 (2025)
Modesto, CA
$124,370 (2019) → $137,480 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Francisco, CA
Modesto, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: San Francisco or Modesto?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Francisco and Modesto?
Should I relocate from San Francisco to Modesto as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in San Francisco vs Modesto?
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