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Job outlook for optometrists, owner in the United States
Are optometrist, owner jobs in demand?
Optometrist, owner job and salary trends over time
Optometrist, owner jobs over time
Optometrist, owner job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 571 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 541 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 582 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 549 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 549 | 0.00% |
Average optometrist, owner salary over time
Optometrist, owner salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $99,954 | $48.05 | +2.4% |
| 2024 | $97,583 | $46.92 | +3.1% |
| 2023 | $94,654 | $45.51 | +1.4% |
| 2022 | $93,392 | $44.90 | +3.9% |
| 2021 | $89,870 | $43.21 | +2.2% |
Optometrist, owner jobs by state
Most common states for optometrists, owner
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Delaware | 961,939 | 199 | 21% |
| 2 | New York | 19,849,399 | 2,333 | 12% |
| 3 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 784 | 11% |
| 4 | California | 39,536,653 | 3,738 | 9% |
| 5 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 462 | 8% |
| 6 | Nevada | 2,998,039 | 254 | 8% |
| 7 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 75 | 7% |
| 8 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 46 | 7% |
| 9 | Vermont | 623,657 | 36 | 6% |
| 10 | Florida | 20,984,400 | 1,068 | 5% |
| 11 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 176 | 5% |
| 12 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 63 | 5% |
| 13 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 290 | 4% |
| 14 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 58 | 4% |
| 15 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 46 | 4% |
| 16 | Alaska | 739,795 | 20 | 3% |
| 17 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 197 | 2% |
| 18 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 44 | 2% |
| 19 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 31 | 2% |
| 20 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 17 | 1% |
Optometrist, Owner job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of optometrist, owner experts
Marshall B. Ketchum University
University of Alabama at Birmingham
What general advice would you give to an Optometrist, Owner?
Mark Nakano OD: Being a lifelong learner is always an important attribute so that you stay current with the evolution of the profession. A special skill set would include being able to utilize technology in clinical care. More equipment that incorporates technology is prevalent and will improve the outcomes for patients. I believe that connecting with your patient and establishing a trusting relationship will remain the most important piece.
What Optometrist, Owner skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Mark Nakano OD: Increasing your earning potential will come with your efficiency and your clinical skill set. The more areas that you can add to a practice the better you should do financially. For example, adding glaucoma care, eye disease, myopia management, specialty contact lenses, or dry eye services to a practice that does not offer those services will be tremendous. The idea is to become an asset not a liability.
What will help Optometrists, Owner increase their earning potential?
Mark Nakano OD: Optometrists are in need and there has not been a time where the demand has been this high. I always tell my students to pick where you want to live first and then look for a job. Regardless of what type of practice you start with, you will learn something from the experience. It is not where you practice, it is how you practice.
Michael Rothschild
Clinical Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham
Deptartament of Optometry and Vision Science
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Optometrists, Owner to find work opportunities?
Michael Rothschild: The best places to find opportunities in optometry are in rural areas. These areas are underserved in all aspects of medical care, including eye care. The need is great and OD's can practice full-scope medical care while appreciating respect from other medical providers in the area.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Optometrist, Owner job market given the pandemic?
Michael Rothschild: In my opinion, the biggest trends we will see in the job market, given the pandemic, is more caution in hiring. There hasn't been a decrease in the demand for optometrists in the job market, the need continues to only grow. However, people aren't as anxious to stretch their budgets, add that new doctor. People looking to hire OD's will be more cautious, more careful to make sure they are hiring the right person. Optometrists who are looking for work, should take extra time to make sure they are putting their best foot forward. Return phone calls, respond to emails in a timely manner and be professional in conversations with potential employers.
What skills stand out on Optometrist, Owner resumes?
Michael Rothschild: In today's environment, anything that shows "flexibility" stands out on a resume. The eye care world is changing fast and employers need to know that their optometrists can change roles quickly and effectively. Resumes should highlight special skills like teleoptometry, speciality contact lenses or low vision. Demonstrate your interest in the vast experiences you can have in delivering optometric care.