Career comparison
Optician vs. Optometrist
Side-by-side pay, training, growth and day-to-day duties to help you choose between two related careers.
Optometrists earn more at the median ($136,570 vs. $47,260), while opticians usually get to work faster (1–2 years on the job of training). Opticians fit eyeglasses and contact lenses so patients see clearly and comfortably. Optometrists examine eyes, prescribe glasses and contacts, and treat eye conditions.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
| Optician | Optometrist | |
|---|---|---|
| Median pay | $47,260 ($22.72/hr) | $136,570 ($65.66/hr) |
| Pay range (10th–90th) | $35,610 – $76,750 | $74,870 – $202,180 |
| Job growth, 2025–35 | +4.2% (about as fast as average) | +9.5% (much faster than average) |
| Openings per year | 5,600 | 2,000 |
| Typical entry education | High school diploma or equivalent | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Training time | 1–2 years on the job | 8 years after high school |
| Key credential | ABO Certification | NBEO exams |
| Work setting | Opticians work in optical stores, eye doctor offices and retail chains.. | Optometrists work in private practices, retail optical stores, clinics and medical centers.. |
What each job does
Optician
- Help customers choose frames and lenses
- Take facial and eye measurements
- Interpret prescriptions
- Order lenses
- Fit and adjust eyewear
Optometrist
- Perform eye exams
- Prescribe glasses and contacts
- Diagnose eye diseases
- Treat infections and dry eye
- Manage glaucoma and diabetic eye care
How they’re similar
Both careers involve working with people, indoor work, and helping others. Both are part of the healthcare field, so many skills transfer between them.
Which should you choose?
Choose optician if…
- I like helping customers
- I have an eye for style
- I like precise measurements
Choose optometrist if…
- I’m interested in vision and eyes
- I like regular hours
- I enjoy helping patients
Still torn? Take the Optician fit quiz and the Optometrist fit quiz, or the full Career Match Quiz.
Quick comparisons
Which pays more, optician or optometrist?
Optometrists earn more at the median: $136,570 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 optometrists (8 years after high school).
Which career has better job growth?
BLS projects optometrists to grow +9.5% from 2025–35, compared with +4.2% for opticians.