Dentist vs Optometrist: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Dentist
Diagnose and treat dental issues including cavities, gum disease, and orthodontics.
Optometrist
Examine eyes, diagnose vision problems, and prescribe corrective lenses.
Dentist earns more on average — the national median is $34,380/year (25%) higher than a Optometrist. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Dentist vs Optometrist — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Dentist | Optometrist | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $244,977 | $199,281 | Dentist +$45,696 |
| New York, NY | $206,409 | $165,439 | Dentist +$40,970 |
| Seattle, WA | $244,156 | $195,352 | Dentist +$48,804 |
| Austin, TX | $189,096 | $156,968 | Dentist +$32,128 |
| Chicago, IL | $178,457 | $148,787 | Dentist +$29,670 |
| Boston, MA | $219,529 | $179,596 | Dentist +$39,933 |
| London, UK | £131,365 | £107,249 | Dentist +$24,116 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$225,532 | CA$178,931 | Dentist +$46,601 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Dentist or Optometrist earn more?+
A Dentist earns more on average. The national median salary for a Dentist is $170,950/year, compared to $136,570/year for a Optometrist — a difference of $34,380 (25%).
Which has better career growth — Dentist or Optometrist?+
Dentist roles are growing at 4% YoY while Optometrist demand is growing at 4% YoY. Optometrist has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Dentist to Optometrist?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Dentist or Optometrist?+
Dentist has a lower AI automation risk (12% vs 22%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.