As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Certified Optometric Assistant in the United States is $35,306 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.
However, a Certified Optometric Assistant's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Certified Optometric Assistant's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Certified Optometric Assistants. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Commitment | 6.44% |
| Meal Preparation | 7.3% |
| Pediatric | 2.15% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Analysis
|
$43,426 |
23%
|
|
Quality Assurance
|
$37,777 |
7%
|
|
Conflict Resolution
|
$37,777 |
7%
|
|
Pediatric
|
$37,424 |
6%
|
|
Listening
|
$37,424 |
6%
|
|
Integrity
|
$37,071 |
5%
|
For Certified Optometric Assistant roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 50% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Healthcare and Hospitality & Leisure sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, Certified Optometric Assistant positions in Business Services or Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Certified Optometric Assistant as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | $45,897 | $22.0 | 30% |
Understanding how a Certified Optometric Assistant's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Salaries for a Certified Optometric Assistant can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $39,390 in 2023 to around $39,012 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Certified Optometric Assistant salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $39,390 |
| 2024 | $39,233 |
| 2025 | $39,012 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The Healthcare industry offers the highest average compensation for Certified Optometric Assistant roles, with salaries approximately 30% above the market median.
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