Optometrist Salary in Chico, CA
How much does a optometrist make in Chico? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Chico's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how optometrist salaries break down across different pay periods in Chico.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $114,567 | $189,417 | $259,684 |
| Monthly | $9,547 | $15,785 | $21,640 |
| Biweekly | $4,406 | $7,285 | $9,988 |
| Weekly | $2,203 | $3,643 | $4,994 |
| Hourly | $55 | $91 | $125 |
Chico vs National Average
How Chico's optometrist salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Chico
About Optometrist
Overview
Perform eye exams and prescribe corrective lenses and treatments.
Education
Doctor of Optometry (OD); licensure required
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +14% over the next decade
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Optometrist Salary in Chico, CA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a optometrist in Chico, CA is $189,417 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 115. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Chico's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level optometrist professionals in Chico can expect to earn around $114,567 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level optometrists earning approximately $259,684 per year. This represents a 127% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Chico's cost of living index of 115 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Chico are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $128,680, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a optometrist's salary in Chico typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,700 per month, housing represents about 10.8% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Optometrists are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 14% over the next decade. In Chico, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.