How to Become a Optometrists in Pennsylvania
Optometrists in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $128,260/year, which is 5% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a optometrists takes home approximately $6,461/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a optometrists can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a optometrists in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Optometrists positions in Pennsylvania typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many optometrists positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for optometristss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 1,530 optometrists. The highest concentrations are in Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton and Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington.
Optometrists salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $141K | $67.62/hr | 80 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $140K | $67.09/hr | 780 |
| York-Hanover | $137K | $65.66/hr | 60 |
| Reading | $134K | $64.38/hr | 40 |
| Lancaster | $127K | $61.27/hr | 60 |
| Erie | $120K | $57.69/hr | 50 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $118K | $56.82/hr | 70 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $118K | $56.52/hr | 80 |
| Pittsburgh | $114K | $54.61/hr | 270 |
Optometrists salary range in Pennsylvania
Optometrists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a optometrists make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median optometrists salary in Pennsylvania is $128,260 per year ($61.66/hr). This is 5% below the national median of $134,830. Salaries range from $79,310 to $175,410.
What are the requirements to become a optometrists in Pennsylvania?▼
Optometrists positions in Pennsylvania typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a optometrists afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $128,260, a optometrists in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $7,873/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 17.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for optometrists in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for optometrists in Pennsylvania are Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($140,650), Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($139,550), York-Hanover ($136,560). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for optometrists?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $128,260 salary, this means roughly $3,938/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.