Career comparison
Ophthalmologist vs. Optician
Side-by-side pay, training, growth and day-to-day duties to help you choose between two related careers.
Ophthalmologists earn more at the median ($300,080 vs. $47,260), while opticians usually get to work faster (1–2 years on the job of training). Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat eye diseases and perform eye surgery. Opticians fit eyeglasses and contact lenses so patients see clearly and comfortably.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
| Ophthalmologist | Optician | |
|---|---|---|
| Median pay | $300,080 ($144.27/hr) | $47,260 ($22.72/hr) |
| Pay range (10th–90th) | $100,180 – $489,710 | $35,610 – $76,750 |
| Job growth, 2025–35 | +4.5% (about as fast as average) | +4.2% (about as fast as average) |
| Openings per year | 200 | 5,600 |
| Typical entry education | Doctoral or professional degree | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Training time | 12 years after high school | 1–2 years on the job |
| Key credential | ABO board certification | ABO Certification |
| Work setting | Ophthalmologists work in clinics, surgery centers and hospitals.. | Opticians work in optical stores, eye doctor offices and retail chains.. |
What each job does
Ophthalmologist
- Examine eyes and diagnose disease
- Perform cataract surgery
- Treat glaucoma
- Manage retinal disease
- Perform laser procedures
Optician
- Help customers choose frames and lenses
- Take facial and eye measurements
- Interpret prescriptions
- Order lenses
- Fit and adjust eyewear
How they’re similar
Both careers involve hands-on work, helping others, and indoor work. Both are part of the healthcare field, so many skills transfer between them.
Which should you choose?
Choose ophthalmologist if…
- I want to restore sight
- I have steady hands
- I like surgery and technology
Choose optician if…
- I like helping customers
- I have an eye for style
- I like precise measurements
Still torn? Take the Ophthalmologist fit quiz and the Optician fit quiz, or the full Career Match Quiz.
Quick comparisons
Which pays more, ophthalmologist or optician?
Ophthalmologists earn more at the median: $300,080 versus $47,260 for opticians, based on BLS May 2025 data.
Which takes less time to train for?
Opticians typically train faster (1–2 years on the job) than ophthalmologists (12 years after high school).
Which career has better job growth?
BLS projects ophthalmologists to grow +4.5% from 2025–35, compared with +4.2% for opticians.