Opticians, Dispensing: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 79,690 opticians, dispensings, and they earn a median of $46,560/year. The range runs from $34K to $73K. New Jersey pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level opticians, dispensings start around $34K. The gap between that and the median ($47K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $73K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $66K | 2,260 |
| Connecticut | $65K | 580 |
| Massachusetts | $64K | 1,430 |
| New York | $60K | 5,180 |
| District of Columbia | $59K | 60 |
| California | $58K | 8,180 |
| Vermont | $58K | 90 |
| Florida | $57K | 5,030 |
| Alaska | $56K | 90 |
| Hawaii | $56K | 160 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a opticians, dispensing make?▼
The median opticians, dispensing salary in the United States is $46,560 per year ($22/hour). Entry-level positions start around $34,470, while experienced professionals earn up to $73,240.
What education do you need to become a opticians, dispensing?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for opticians, dispensings?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for opticians, dispensings.
What are the highest paying states for opticians, dispensings?▼
The highest paying states for opticians, dispensings are New Jersey ($66,250), Connecticut ($64,780), Massachusetts ($63,810), New York ($60,100), District of Columbia ($59,110). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.