{"id":1582,"date":"2026-11-12T09:07:57","date_gmt":"2026-11-12T09:07:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/?p=1582"},"modified":"2026-11-12T09:17:55","modified_gmt":"2026-11-12T09:17:55","slug":"optometrist-salary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/","title":{"rendered":"How Much Do Optometrists Make? Salary by Setting, State &#038; Experience"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Optometrist pay can vary significantly depending on location, experience, practice setting, specialty training, and compensation structure. The latest <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/healthcare\/optometrists.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> data puts the median annual wage for optometrists at $136,570 as of May 2025, or about $65.66 per hour.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The lowest 10% earned less than $74,870, while the highest 10% earned more than $202,180. BLS also projects optometrist employment to grow 10% from 2025 to 2035, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For 2026, a separate salary dataset estimates a national median of $140,612, or about $67.60 per hour. Because this figure is an estimate, it should be viewed alongside the latest confirmed BLS wage data rather than treated as a new BLS median.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#What_Is_the_Average_Optometrist_Salary\" >What Is the Average Optometrist Salary?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Optometrist_Salary_by_Work_Setting\" >Optometrist Salary by Work Setting<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Private_Practice\" >Private Practice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Corporate_and_Retail_Optometry\" >Corporate and Retail Optometry<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Hospitals_and_Outpatient_Care\" >Hospitals and Outpatient Care<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Government_Federal_and_Academic_Roles\" >Government, Federal, and Academic Roles<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#How_Much_Do_Optometrists_Make_in_2026\" >How Much Do Optometrists Make in 2026?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Optometrist_Salary_by_State\" >Optometrist Salary by State<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Optometrist_Salary_by_Experience\" >Optometrist Salary by Experience<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#What_Determines_an_Optometrists_Salary\" >What Determines an Optometrist&#8217;s Salary?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Practice_Model\" >Practice Model<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Specialty_Training\" >Specialty Training<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Location_and_Scope_of_Practice\" >Location and Scope of Practice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Productivity_and_Patient_Volume\" >Productivity and Patient Volume<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Practice_Ownership\" >Practice Ownership<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#What_Benefits_Should_Optometrists_Look_For\" >What Benefits Should Optometrists Look For?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#How_Much_Does_a_Correctional_Optometrist_Earn\" >How Much Does a Correctional Optometrist Earn?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#How_to_Compare_Two_Optometrist_Job_Offers\" >How to Compare Two Optometrist Job Offers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#To_Conclude\" >To Conclude!<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#FAQs\" >FAQs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#How_Can_Optometrists_Increase_Their_Salary\" >How Can Optometrists Increase Their Salary?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#How_Long_Does_It_Take_to_Become_an_Optometrist\" >How Long Does It Take to Become an Optometrist?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#What_Do_Optometrists_Do\" >What Do Optometrists Do?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Is_Optometry_a_Good_Career\" >Is Optometry a Good Career?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Is_an_Optometrist_the_Same_as_an_Ophthalmologist\" >Is an Optometrist the Same as an Ophthalmologist?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Do_Optometrists_Earn_More_in_Private_Practice_or_Employed_Positions\" >Do Optometrists Earn More in Private Practice or Employed Positions?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Will_AI_Replace_Optometrists\" >Will AI Replace Optometrists?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#Which_Career_Is_Better_B_Pharm_or_Optometry\" >Which Career Is Better: B. Pharm or Optometry?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#How_Stressful_Is_a_Career_in_Optometry\" >How Stressful Is a Career in Optometry?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/optometrist-salary\/#What_Can_I_Do_After_Completing_Optometry\" >What Can I Do After Completing Optometry?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_the_Average_Optometrist_Salary\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Is the Average Optometrist Salary?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The latest confirmed BLS median optometrist salary is <\/span><b>$136,570 per year<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. BLS reports an average hourly wage of $65.66, although annual income can vary significantly based on hours worked, employment arrangement, and practice ownership.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here is how the current BLS wage distribution looks:<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Pay Level<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Annual Wage<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lowest 10%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Less than $74,870<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">25th percentile<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$109,400<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Median<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$136,570<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">75th percentile<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$165,120<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Highest 10%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">More than $202,180<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The median is often more useful than an average when comparing salaries because it shows the midpoint of the profession. Half of optometrists earn more than the median, while half earn less.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A 2026 salary estimate puts the national median at <\/span><b>$140,612<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, with estimated 10th- and 90th-percentile pay of $77,086 and $208,165. These figures are useful for understanding the current market, but they are estimates rather than confirmed BLS wages.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Optometrist_Salary_by_Work_Setting\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Optometrist Salary by Work Setting<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Where an optometrist works can have a major effect on compensation. The latest BLS data shows different median wages across major industries:<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Work Setting<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Median Annual Wage<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Outpatient care centers<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$207,030<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Retail trade<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$159,250<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Offices of physicians<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$145,630<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Offices of optometrists<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$129,250<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These figures describe wages by industry rather than guaranteed salaries for every job within that setting.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Private_Practice\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Private Practice<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Private practice can offer higher long-term earning potential because an owner can earn from both professional services and the business itself. Income can depend on patient volume, optical sales, specialty services, staffing costs, rent, equipment, and other operating expenses.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An employed associate usually has less financial risk but also has less opportunity to build practice equity.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Corporate_and_Retail_Optometry\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Corporate and Retail Optometry<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Corporate and retail practices often provide a more predictable employment structure. Compensation may include a base salary or hourly rate plus productivity incentives.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benefits can also add significant value to the overall package. Health insurance, retirement contributions, paid time off, continuing education support, and malpractice coverage can make two offers with similar salaries worth very different amounts.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hospitals_and_Outpatient_Care\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hospitals and Outpatient Care<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hospital and outpatient settings can provide strong compensation, especially for optometrists working with medical eye conditions and larger patient populations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The latest BLS data shows outpatient care centers had the highest median wage among the major industries listed, at $207,030.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Government_Federal_and_Academic_Roles\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Government, Federal, and Academic Roles<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Government and academic positions may offer a different compensation mix. The base salary may not always be the highest available, but retirement programs, paid leave, insurance, education benefits, and job stability can increase total compensation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Optometrists seeking flexible assignments can also work with a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare staffing agency<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to find opportunities based on location, schedule, and compensation preferences.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Much_Do_Optometrists_Make_in_2026\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Much Do Optometrists Make in 2026?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The latest 2026 estimate places the national median optometrist salary at <\/span><b>$140,612 per year<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or approximately <\/span><b>$67.60 per hour<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For context, the estimated range is:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>10th percentile:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> $77,086<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Median:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> $140,612<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>90th percentile:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> $208,165<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These 2026 figures are estimates based on salary modeling rather than a completed 2026 BLS wage survey. The latest confirmed BLS wage remains $136,570 from May 2025.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This distinction matters when comparing salary sources. A current estimate can help with 2026 planning, while BLS data provides the most reliable benchmark from an official wage survey.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Optometrist_Salary_by_State\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Optometrist Salary by State<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Location is one of the biggest factors affecting optometrist compensation. The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/2025\/may\/oessrcst.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>May 2025 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show that wages can vary considerably across the country.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of the highest state-level BLS mean annual wages reported for optometrists in 2025 include:<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>State<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Mean Annual Wage<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alaska<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$165,120<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">New Jersey<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$161,110<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">North Carolina<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$161,030<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maine<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$160,730<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Washington<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$159,380<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Virginia<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$155,530<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">New Mexico<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$153,180<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">New York<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$153,130<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Massachusetts<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$152,550<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Colorado<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$152,460<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These are mean wages, so they should not be compared directly with the national median or with estimates from other salary databases.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A separate 2026 salary dataset also shows substantial differences between states. Its current state-level estimates range from averages above $160,000 in North Carolina, New York, and New Jersey to averages below $115,000 in Oklahoma and West Virginia.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">State-level differences can reflect local demand, practice concentration, patient volume, cost of living, scope of practice, and the mix of employers in each market.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, an optometrist working in a high-demand area may receive a stronger offer because a practice needs to attract and retain providers. A lower-cost rural market can also offer competitive compensation when employers have difficulty filling positions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">California is another good example. The optometrist salary in California can vary significantly by location, practice setting, and experience. The state has opportunities across private practices, medical eye-care settings, retail practices, and government facilities. At the same time, higher living costs can affect how far a salary goes compared with other states.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Optometrist_Salary_by_Experience\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Optometrist Salary by Experience<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Experience can affect compensation, but it is not the only factor. Practice setting, productivity, specialty training, and ownership opportunities can cause two optometrists with the same number of years in practice to earn very different amounts.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/odsonfinance.com\/optometrist-income-report2025\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>2025 Optometry Income Report<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, based on responses from more than 2,200 optometrists, reported the following average compensation levels by experience.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Experience<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Average Compensation<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">0\u20135 years<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$152,097<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6\u201310 years<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$166,655<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11\u201315 years<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$180,270<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">21\u201325 years<\/span><\/td>\n<td><b>$190,884<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These figures come from a professional compensation survey and use a different methodology from BLS wage data.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Early-career optometrists often begin as associates or employees. As they gain experience, they may take on more complex cases, develop specialty services, move into higher-paying practices, negotiate productivity bonuses, or pursue ownership.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Determines_an_Optometrists_Salary\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Determines an Optometrist&#8217;s Salary?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Salary differences usually come down to several factors rather than experience alone.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practice_Model\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practice Model<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The employment model can have a major impact on earning potential.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An employed optometrist typically receives a predictable salary or hourly rate, often with benefits. Productivity-based compensation can provide additional income when an optometrist sees more patients or generates more eligible revenue.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An independent practice owner has greater financial responsibility but can also earn from the broader practice. Revenue may come from eye examinations, medical eye care, optical products, contact lenses, specialty services, and other offerings.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sublease arrangements can provide another path to independence. In these arrangements, an optometrist operates an independent practice within a retail environment and is responsible for the financial performance of that practice.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Specialty_Training\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Specialty Training<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additional training can create access to different types of clinical roles.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Optometrists may pursue residency or additional training in areas such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ocular disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cornea and contact lenses<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Primary eye care<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pediatrics<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low vision rehabilitation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vision therapy<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Glaucoma<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Specialty contact lenses<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Myopia management<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Specialty Training can also affect earning potential across the broader locum tenens market. If you are comparing compensation across medical fields, see the guide to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/what-is-the-highest-paid-locum-tenens-specialty\/\"><b>highest paid locum tenens specialties<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for a broader look at which specialties tend to command higher rates.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Specialty skills can be particularly valuable in medical practices, academic settings, referral-based practices, and private practices that offer advanced services.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, additional credentials do not automatically guarantee a higher salary. Their value depends on the local market and the role being offered.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Location_and_Scope_of_Practice\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Location and Scope of Practice<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Location affects both salary and the cost of living.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">State scope-of-practice rules can also affect the types of services an optometrist can provide. Broader authority for medical eye care and certain procedures can create opportunities in practices that emphasize disease management and advanced clinical services.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rural and underserved areas can offer additional incentives when employers have difficulty recruiting providers. Depending on the position and program, these incentives can include signing bonuses, relocation assistance, or student-loan repayment.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Productivity_and_Patient_Volume\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Productivity and Patient Volume<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some optometry compensation packages include productivity incentives. The bonus may be tied to patient volume, examinations, collections, or other measures defined in the employment agreement.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This means an optometrist&#8217;s total income may be higher than the listed base salary.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before accepting an offer, review exactly how the bonus is calculated. A higher advertised earning potential does not mean the same thing as a higher guaranteed salary.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practice_Ownership\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practice Ownership<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ownership can create the largest difference between employed income and long-term earning potential.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An owner can benefit from the financial performance of the entire practice rather than receiving compensation only for clinical work. At the same time, ownership comes with expenses such as staffing, rent, equipment, insurance, technology, supplies, and marketing.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The higher income potential comes with greater financial responsibility.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Benefits_Should_Optometrists_Look_For\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Benefits Should Optometrists Look For?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benefits can make a substantial difference in total compensation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When reviewing an offer, check for:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Health, dental, and vision insurance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Retirement contributions or matching<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Paid time off<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Paid holidays<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Continuing education funding<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Professional license fees<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Malpractice insurance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Professional organization support<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Disability and life insurance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Student-loan assistance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relocation assistance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Signing bonuses<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parental leave<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Schedule flexibility<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also check which expenses are covered by the employer and which come out of your compensation.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Much_Does_a_Correctional_Optometrist_Earn\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Much Does a Correctional Optometrist Earn?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Correctional optometrist pay can vary widely because these positions are usually tied to a specific facility, contract, schedule, and state.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recent correctional job postings in California show how much individual offers can differ. Some postings have listed rates around $91 per hour, while others have advertised rates above $120 per hour. Other correctional positions may offer lower hourly rates depending on the appointment structure and employment terms. For example, an <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/job-detail\/optometrists-job-opening-in-correctional-facility-at-wasco\/\"><b>optometrist job in Wasco<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> currently pays $75 per hour.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These figures should not be treated as a statewide correctional optometrist salary average. They are individual job-posting rates and can change as positions are updated.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For correctional roles, compare the hourly rate with the schedule, guaranteed hours, benefits, contract length, travel requirements, and malpractice coverage before judging the total value of the position.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Compare_Two_Optometrist_Job_Offers\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Compare Two Optometrist Job Offers<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A higher salary does not automatically make one offer better.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Compare each offer across these areas:<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Compensation Factor<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>What to Check<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Base salary<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guaranteed annual or hourly pay<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bonus<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Formula, eligibility, and payment schedule<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benefits<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Health, dental, vision, and other coverage<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Retirement<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Employer contribution or matching<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">PTO<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vacation, sick time, and holidays<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CE<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Annual budget and paid education days<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Malpractice<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coverage and policy limits<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Schedule<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hours, weekends, evenings, and flexibility<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Patient volume<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expected daily workload<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ownership<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Partnership or equity opportunities<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Location<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost of living and commute<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relocation<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moving assistance or signing bonus<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contract<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Term, renewal, and termination conditions<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pay close attention to bonus language. Ask whether the advertised compensation is guaranteed or depends on reaching production targets.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"To_Conclude\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To Conclude!<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The latest confirmed BLS data puts the median optometrist salary at <\/span><b>$136,570<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, while current 2026 salary estimates place the median around <\/span><b>$140,612<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Where you work matters, but so does how you work. Practice ownership, specialty training, patient volume, productivity compensation, location, and benefits can all change total earnings.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are comparing optometry jobs, look beyond the advertised salary. Consider the full compensation package, workload, cost of living, career progression, and potential for partnership or ownership. That gives you a more realistic picture of what an optometry career can pay over time.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FAQs<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Can_Optometrists_Increase_Their_Salary\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Can Optometrists Increase Their Salary?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Optometrists can increase their earnings through specialty training, productivity-based compensation, partnership opportunities, or practice ownership. Changing employers or locations can also affect earning potential.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Long_Does_It_Take_to_Become_an_Optometrist\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Long Does It Take to Become an Optometrist?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most optometrists complete a four-year Doctor of Optometry program after earning a bachelor&#8217;s degree. They must also meet required examination and state licensing requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Do_Optometrists_Do\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Do Optometrists Do?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Optometrists examine eyes, diagnose and manage eye conditions, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide vision care. Their work can include routine exams as well as medical eye care.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Optometry_a_Good_Career\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is Optometry a Good Career?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Optometry offers strong earning potential and a positive job outlook. BLS projects 10% employment growth from 2025 to 2035, faster than the average for all occupations.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_an_Optometrist_the_Same_as_an_Ophthalmologist\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is an Optometrist the Same as an Ophthalmologist?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No. Optometrists earn a Doctor of Optometry degree and provide primary and medical eye care. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who can also perform eye surgery.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_Optometrists_Earn_More_in_Private_Practice_or_Employed_Positions\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do Optometrists Earn More in Private Practice or Employed Positions?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It depends on the role and compensation structure. Practice owners can earn more through business income, while employed positions often provide more predictable pay and benefits.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Will_AI_Replace_Optometrists\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Will AI Replace Optometrists?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">AI is unlikely to replace optometrists. Instead, it can assist with tasks such as screening and data analysis while optometrists continue to provide patient care and clinical decisions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Career_Is_Better_B_Pharm_or_Optometry\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Which Career Is Better: B. Pharm or Optometry?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Neither career is better for everyone. B. Pharm may suit you if you prefer medicines and chemistry, while optometry may be a better fit if you enjoy patient care and eye health.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Stressful_Is_a_Career_in_Optometry\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Stressful Is a Career in Optometry?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Optometry is generally considered a low-to-moderate stress healthcare career. Stress can vary based on workload, patient volume, and the practice setting.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Can_I_Do_After_Completing_Optometry\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Can I Do After Completing Optometry?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After optometry, you can work in clinical practice, join the optical industry, pursue advanced education, or start your own practice. Your choice depends on your career goals and interests.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Optometrist pay can vary significantly depending on location, experience, practice setting, specialty training, and compensation structure. The latest Bureau of [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1584,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[27],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1582","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-locum-tenens"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1582","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1582"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1582\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1588,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1582\/revisions\/1588"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1584"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1582"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1582"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/imperiallocum.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1582"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}