How to Become a Optometrists in California
Optometrists in California earn a median salary of $137,070/year, which is 2% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.5%. After taxes and rent, a optometrists takes home approximately $6,551/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a optometrists can afford in California
Becoming a optometrists in California
Meet education requirements
Optometrists positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many optometrists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for optometristss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 6,790 optometrists. The highest concentrations are in Santa Rosa-Petaluma and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Optometrists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $166K | $79.75/hr | 80 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $158K | $75.84/hr | 980 |
| Vallejo | $156K | $75.2/hr | 90 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $154K | $74.25/hr | 490 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $153K | $73.39/hr | 40 |
| Salinas | $150K | $71.88/hr | 30 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $149K | $71.8/hr | 380 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $140K | $67.1/hr | 30 |
| Modesto | $137K | $65.93/hr | 60 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $137K | $65.9/hr | 2,720 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $135K | $64.82/hr | 30 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $135K | $64.79/hr | 90 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $134K | $64.54/hr | 540 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $132K | $63.41/hr | 550 |
| Chico | $132K | $63.24/hr | 40 |
Optometrists salary range in California
Optometrists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a optometrists make in California?▼
The median optometrists salary in California is $137,070 per year ($65.9/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $134,830. Salaries range from $71,860 to $213,420.
What are the requirements to become a optometrists in California?▼
Optometrists positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a optometrists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $137,070, a optometrists in California would take home approximately $7,963/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 17.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for optometrists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for optometrists in California are Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($165,870), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($157,750), Vallejo ($156,410). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for optometrists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.5%. On a $137,070 salary, this means roughly $8,885/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.