Optometrists vs. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses: Who Earns More?
Optometristss out-earn Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess by $72K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Optometristss land at $136,570 and Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess at $64,400. The education gap is real: optometrist programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while licensed practical and licensed vocational nurse programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Optometristss is Alaska ($170,310); for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess it's Washington ($83,150).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Optometrists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Optometristss or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess?
Optometristss earn more nationally. The median is $136,570 for Optometristss versus $64,400 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess, a difference of $72K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Optometrists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Optometrists or Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses?
Optometrists typically requires doctoral or professional degree. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses requires postsecondary nondegree award. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Optometristss get paid the most?
Alaska is the top-paying state for Optometristss at $170,310/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Optometrists vs. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Alaska, Optometristss earn $170,310 vs. $80,800 for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nursess. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.