Optometrist vs Surgeon: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Optometrist
Examine eyes, diagnose vision problems, and prescribe corrective lenses.
Surgeon
Perform operative procedures to treat injuries, diseases, and deformities.
Surgeon earns more on average — the national median is $287,768/year (211%) higher than a Optometrist. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Optometrist vs Surgeon — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Optometrist | Surgeon | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $199,281 | $600,082 | Optometrist $400,801 |
| New York, NY | $165,439 | $498,340 | Optometrist $332,901 |
| Seattle, WA | $195,352 | $606,568 | Optometrist $411,216 |
| Austin, TX | $156,968 | $487,767 | Optometrist $330,799 |
| Chicago, IL | $148,787 | $464,470 | Optometrist $315,683 |
| Boston, MA | $179,596 | $566,760 | Optometrist $387,164 |
| London, UK | £107,249 | £236,648 | Optometrist $129,399 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$178,931 | CA$419,646 | Optometrist $240,715 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Optometrist or Surgeon earn more?+
A Surgeon earns more on average. The national median salary for a Optometrist is $136,570/year, compared to $424,338/year for a Surgeon — a difference of $287,768 (211%).
Which has better career growth — Optometrist or Surgeon?+
Optometrist roles are growing at 4% YoY while Surgeon demand is growing at 4% YoY. Surgeon has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Optometrist to Surgeon?+
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 — Optometrist or Surgeon?+
Surgeon has a lower AI automation risk (8% vs 22%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.