Optometrists or Doctors of Optometry (OD) provide elementary vision care to patients suffering from ocular problems.
Optometrist
Description
They’re your friendly neighborhood eye docs—checking vision, prescribing glasses, and spotting eye health issues before they scare your retina.
Responsibilities
- Conduct eye exams, diagnose vision issues, and write prescriptions
- Detect early signs of eye diseases (like glaucoma or macular issues)
- Refer to ophthalmologists for advanced care when needed
Pay range (U.S.)
- Median: $134,830/year (May 2024)
- Range (10th–90th): $70,060 – $203,210
- Reported average: Around $147,576 (2024 estimate)
Requirements
- Complete a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree (4 years post-undergrad)
- State licensure required to practice
Workforce Size in the United States
- Employment projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033—faster than average—with about 2,200 openings per year.
Making 20/20 vision look easy—and yes, they still think your glasses are cool.