Optometrist Salary in California (2026)
California · 42.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $276,424 | +55.0% | High |
| San Diego | $263,940 | +48.0% | High |
| San Jose | $306,741 | +72.0% | High |
| San Francisco | $329,925 | +85.0% | High |
| Fresno | $192,605 | +8.0% | High |
| Sacramento | $217,572 | +22.0% | High |
| Long Beach | $258,590 | +45.0% | High |
| Bakersfield | $192,605 | +8.0% | High |
| Anaheim | $253,240 | +42.0% | High |
| Santa Ana | $249,673 | +40.0% | High |
| Riverside | $228,273 | +28.0% | High |
| Stockton | $210,439 | +18.0% | High |
| Irvine | $276,424 | +55.0% | High |
| San Bernardino | $210,439 | +18.0% | High |
| Modesto | $199,739 | +12.0% | High |
| Fontana | $217,572 | +22.0% | High |
| Moreno Valley | $205,089 | +15.0% | High |
| Glendale | $263,940 | +48.0% | High |
| Fremont | $285,341 | +60.0% | High |
California is home to a very strong job market for Optometrists. The state's key industries — Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $178,338 per year, California's Optometrist salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in California (index: 1.42) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in California can expect to earn $104,715–$140,402, while experienced Optometrists can command $220,699–$252,292.
Looking ahead, the Optometrist profession in California is projected to grow at 3.2% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Technology continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Optometrist salary in California?The average Optometrist salary in California is $178,338 per year in 2026, which is 42.0% above the national average of $125,590.
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What city in California pays Optometrists the most?San Francisco and San Jose typically pay Optometrists the highest wages in California due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is California a good state for Optometrists?California has a very strong job market with major industries in Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Optometrist employment.
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How does California Optometrist salary compare to the US average?At $178,338/year, California Optometrist salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average of $125,590/year.