Salary & Benefits

The salary for an optician can vary significantly based on your location, level of certification, and the type of practice you work in. On average, certified opticians earn 15-20% more than non-certified peers. For detailed comparisons by state and experience level, you can use an interactive optician salary data tool.

National Median Salary

$44,170

+3.2% from last year

Entry-Level (0-2 years)

$35,500

Typical starting range for apprentices

Senior (10+ years)

$68,900

Top 10% of earners in the field

Salary by Workplace

Retail Chains

$41,000

Average annual

Private Optometry

$46,000

Average annual

Medical Clinics

$49,500

Average annual

Self-Employed

$65,000

Average annual

Salary by State

Data updated Jan 2026

State	Average Annual	Entry Level	Senior Level
California	$52,400	$42,000	$72,000
New York	$51,200	$41,000	$70,500
Texas	$44,500	$36,000	$61,000
Florida	$43,200	$35,000	$59,000
Massachusetts	$50,800	$40,500	$69,000
Illinois	$45,600	$37,000	$62,500
Pennsylvania	$44,100	$35,500	$60,500
Ohio	$42,300	$34,500	$58,000
Arizona	$46,800	$37,500	$64,000
Virginia	$48,200	$38,800	$66,500
Washington	$49,500	$39,800	$68,000
Colorado	$47,400	$38,000	$65,000
Oregon	$46,200	$37,000	$63,500
New Jersey	$50,500	$40,200	$69,500
Michigan	$43,800	$35,000	$60,000
North Carolina	$44,200	$35,500	$61,000
Georgia	$41,800	$34,000	$57,500

Benefits & Perks

Health & Vision

Most full-time opticians receive medical, dental, and comprehensive vision insurance (often including free eyewear).

Professional Dues

Many employers cover the cost of state license renewals and professional association memberships.

Continuing Education

Annual allowance for CE credits and attendance at optical conferences like Vision Expo.

Bonuses & Commissions

Retail-based opticians often have performance-based incentives for lens upgrades and frame sales.

Want to increase your earning potential?

National certification through the ABO and NCLE is the fastest way to a pay raise. Certified opticians are more marketable and often qualify for management roles.

View the Certification Guide