Optometrist Salary in North Carolina (2026)
North Carolina · 9.0% below national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte | $109,716 | -4.0% | High |
| Raleigh | $112,001 | -2.0% | High |
| Greensboro | $102,858 | -10.0% | High |
| Durham | $110,858 | -3.0% | High |
| Winston-Salem | $99,430 | -13.0% | High |
North Carolina is home to a strong job market for Optometrists. The state's key industries — Technology, Finance, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $114,287 per year, North Carolina's Optometrist salaries are 9.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in North Carolina (index: 0.91) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in North Carolina can expect to earn $67,106–$89,976, while experienced Optometrists can command $141,434–$161,680.
Looking ahead, the Optometrist profession in North Carolina 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 North Carolina?The average Optometrist salary in North Carolina is $114,287 per year in 2026, which is 9.0% below the national average of $125,590.
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What city in North Carolina pays Optometrists the most?Major metro areas typically pay Optometrists the highest wages in North Carolina due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is North Carolina a good state for Optometrists?North Carolina has a strong job market with major industries in Technology, Finance, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Optometrist employment.
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How does North Carolina Optometrist salary compare to the US average?At $114,287/year, North Carolina Optometrist salaries are 9.0% lower than the national average of $125,590/year.