How Much Does a Dispensing Optician Make? (2025)
The demand for dispensing opticians has been steadily increasing as more individuals require corrective eyewear, such as eyeglasses and contact lenses. This surge has led to a growing need for skilled professionals who can provide personalized eye care services.
According to the Salary.com report, the average dispensing optician salary, as of February 2025, is $54,600 per year. This article explores the salary trend, state-by-state earnings, and how opticians can increase their pay.
What is the Average Dispensing Optician’s Salary?
As of February 2025, the average annual salary for a dispensing optician in the United States is $54,600. Salaries typically range from $43,577 to $70,380, depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific employer.
Dispensing Optician Salary: $54,600 per year ($26 per hour)
According to Salary.com, the average monthly salary for dispensing opticians is $4,550, with an average weekly salary of $1,050. The hourly wage for a dispensing optician is typically $26.
| Percentile | Hourly Pay | Weekly Pay | Monthly Pay | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $21 | $838 | $3,631 | $43,577 |
| 25th Percentile | $23 | $939 | $4,069 | $48,830 |
| 50th Percentile | $26 | $1,050 | $4,550 | $54,600 |
| 75th Percentile | $30 | $1,209 | $5,238 | $62,860 |
| 90th Percentile | $34 | $1,353 | $5,865 | $70,380 |
Dispensing Optician Salaries State by State
Salaries for dispensing opticians can vary significantly by state, influenced by factors such as local demand, cost of living, and industry presence. Below is a table outlining the average annual salaries for dispensing opticians across various states as of February 2025:
| State | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $50,180 |
| Alaska | $59,460 |
| Arizona | $53,180 |
| Arkansas | $49,740 |
| California | $60,230 |
| Colorado | $55,690 |
| Connecticut | $58,640 |
| Delaware | $55,420 |
| District of Columbia | $60,770 |
| Florida | $51,870 |
| Georgia | $52,800 |
| Hawaii | $57,060 |
| Idaho | $50,940 |
| Illinois | $55,860 |
| Indiana | $52,960 |
| Iowa | $52,250 |
| Kansas | $51,980 |
| Kentucky | $51,380 |
| Louisiana | $51,930 |
| Maine | $53,130 |
| Maryland | $56,290 |
| Massachusetts | $59,410 |
| Michigan | $53,890 |
| Minnesota | $55,860 |
| Mississippi | $48,710 |
| Missouri | $52,040 |
| Montana | $51,000 |
| Nebraska | $51,440 |
| Nevada | $54,820 |
| New Hampshire | $55,530 |
| New Jersey | $59,840 |
| New Mexico | $50,340 |
| New York | $58,210 |
| North Carolina | $52,420 |
| North Dakota | $54,060 |
| Ohio | $53,400 |
| Oklahoma | $50,510 |
| Oregon | $55,480 |
| Pennsylvania | $54,490 |
| Rhode Island | $57,000 |
| South Carolina | $51,540 |
| South Dakota | $49,090 |
| Tennessee | $50,560 |
| Texas | $53,460 |
| Utah | $51,930 |
| Vermont | $53,560 |
| Virginia | $54,770 |
| Washington | $58,860 |
| West Virginia | $49,140 |
| Wisconsin | $53,950 |
| Wyoming | $52,360 |
The District of Columbia offers the highest average salary for dispensing opticians at $60,770. On the lower end, Mississippi has the lowest average salary at $48,710.
Best-Paying Cities for Dispensing Opticians
Salaries for dispensing opticians vary widely by location, largely influenced by cost of living, demand for eye care services, and industry presence.
For instance, San Jose, CA, San Francisco, CA, and Oakland, CA are among the top-paying locations for dispensing opticians, with salaries exceeding $68,610 per year. For professionals looking to advance their careers, moving to one of these high-paying cities can significantly boost pay and career growth opportunities.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| San Jose, CA | $68,520 |
| San Francisco, CA | $68,250 |
| Oakland, CA | $66,610 |
| New York, NY | $63,770 |
| Queens Village, NY | $63,340 |
| Paramus, NJ | $62,900 |
How Experience Affects Dispensing Optician Salary
Experience plays a significant role in determining the salary range for dispensing opticians. According to Salary.com’s salary report, an entry-level dispensing optician typically starts with an annual salary of around $52,155. On the other hand, senior-level opticians with 5 to 8 years of experience see their pay rise to roughly $58,303.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Dispensing Optician | $52,155 |
| Intermediate Level Dispensing Optician | $52,326 |
| Senior Level Dispensing Optician | $54,640 |
| Specialist Level Dispensing Optician | $58,059 |
| Expert Level Dispensing Optician | $58,303 |
How to Increase Salary as a Dispensing Optician?
To enhance earning potential, dispensing opticians can consider the following strategies:
- Pursue Advanced Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) certification and National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE) certification can make professionals more competitive and eligible for higher-paying roles. Some states require opticians to obtain formal licensing, which can further increase salary potential.
- Gain Experience: Accumulating years of relevant experience can lead to senior positions with higher salaries. For example, an entry-level dispensing optician earns around $52,155 per year, while an expert-level professional with over eight years of experience can command a salary of approximately $58,303, particularly in high-demand industries and organizations.
- Consider Geographic Location: Working in states or cities with higher demand for dispensing opticians can result in better pay. For example, San Jose, CA ($68,520), San Francisco, CA ($68,250), and Oakland, CA ($66,610) offer some of the highest salaries for eye care professionals.
- Specialize in High-End Eyewear & Contact Lenses: Developing expertise in specialty contact lenses, high-end designer eyeglass frames, and advanced prescriptions for complex visual needs can lead to higher salaries. Employers in premium optical dispensing businesses often pay more for these specialized skills.
Dispensing Optician Skills
For dispensing opticians, having the right skills can make a significant difference in earning potential. Employers prefer professionals with expertise in prescriptions, ophthalmic dispensing, and customer service, as these skills are essential for providing high-quality eye care.
According to real-time job market data report, certified opticians who improve their expertise in high-demand areas can see a notable salary boost.
| Skill | Demand | Salary Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Vision Examination | 26.66% | +5.70% |
| Patient Care | 16.31% | +6.89% |
| HIPAA Compliance | 15.93% | +8.72% |
| Billing | 13.82% | +6.49% |
| Ophthalmology | 9.19% | +6.99% |
| Healthcare Industry | 7.39% | +3.74% |
What are FAQs About Digital Content Specialists' Salary?
Here are the common questions about dispensing optician:
What is the average yearly salary of a dispensing optician?
As of February 2025, the average yearly salary for a dispensing optician is $54,600, with hourly rates averaging $26 per hour. Salaries range from $43,577 to $70,380 per year.
Are dispensing opticians in demand?
Yes, the demand for dispensing opticians is expected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is due to increasing reliance on corrective eyewear and an aging population requiring prescription lenses.
Do dispensing opticians need a degree?
Education level, such as having an associate's degree or certification, can also significantly influence the salary. While a high school diploma is a minimum requirement, an associate's degree in ophthalmic dispensing or optical sciences can improve career prospects. Certifications such as ABO and NCLE are also valuable.
What certifications are valuable for dispensing opticians?
Certifications such as ABO certification, NCLE certification, and state-specific licensed optician requirements can enhance job prospects and increase pay.
Do dispensing opticians work evenings or weekends?
Yes, many retail stores and optical clinics require opticians to work evenings and weekends to accommodate customers. Those willing to work non-traditional hours may earn higher salaries.
Can an optician increase their salary through education?
Yes, pursuing certification, additional training, and specializing in ophthalmic dispensing can lead to higher salaries. Some states require opticians to obtain licensing, which can further increase earnings.
