Optometrists vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Optometrists out-earn Registered Nurses by $39K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Optometrists land at $136,570 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: optometrist programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Optometrists is Alaska ($170,310); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
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, Optometrists or Registered Nurses?
Optometrists earn more nationally. The median is $136,570 for Optometrists versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $39K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Optometrists or Registered Nurses?
Optometrists has the better 10-year outlook at 8% projected growth, compared to 4.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Optometrists or Registered Nurses?
Optometrists typically requires doctoral or professional degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Optometrists get paid the most?
Alaska is the top-paying state for Optometrists 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. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Alaska, Optometrists earn $170,310 vs. $109,480 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.