Optometrist Salary in Virginia (2026)
Virginia · 10.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach | $145,056 | +5.0% | High |
| Richmond | $140,912 | +2.0% | High |
Virginia is home to a very strong job market for Optometrists. The state's key industries — Government, Technology, Defense — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $138,149 per year, Virginia's Optometrist salaries are 10.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in Virginia (index: 1.1) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in Virginia can expect to earn $81,117–$108,762, while experienced Optometrists can command $170,964–$195,437.
Looking ahead, the Optometrist profession in Virginia is projected to grow at 3.2% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Government continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
-
What is the average Optometrist salary in Virginia?The average Optometrist salary in Virginia is $138,149 per year in 2026, which is 10.0% above the national average of $125,590.
-
What city in Virginia pays Optometrists the most?Major metro areas typically pay Optometrists the highest wages in Virginia due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
-
Is Virginia a good state for Optometrists?Virginia has a very strong job market with major industries in Government, Technology, Defense. This makes it one of the better states for Optometrist employment.
-
How does Virginia Optometrist salary compare to the US average?At $138,149/year, Virginia Optometrist salaries are 10.0% higher than the national average of $125,590/year.