The 2025 Optometrist Income Report: A Deep Dive with Dr. Chris Lopez

The optometry profession continues to evolve in the face of rising student loan debt, shifting work-life balance preferences, and ongoing disparities in pay.

In a recent episode of the Ryan Reflects podcast, I sat down with Dr. Chris Lopez, a practice owner, career consultant, and part of the powerhouse team behind ODs on Finance, to explore the 2025 ODs on Finance Optometrist Income Report and what it means for the future of optometry.

Below are some of the key takeaways from our conversation.

Eye-Opening Salary Discrepancies

One of the most striking insights from the report? The gender pay gap in optometry is still very real. Dr. Lopez shared a jaw-dropping example from a private equity group that offered male doctors 18% of production while their female counterparts, who were more productive and experienced, were offered only 15%. That’s a $30,000 difference on a $1M production.

This isn’t anecdotal. It’s a pattern. The report found that, on average, female ODs earn 13.5% less than male ODs. And when it comes to net worth, the disparity is even more glaring—almost a 50% gap.

“It exists,” said Lopez. “Let’s stop pretending like it doesn’t.”

Financial Education: The Gap That Needs Closing

Optometry schools excel in clinical education, but most still fall short when it comes to preparing students for the financial realities of the profession. ODs on Finance has stepped up with webinars, resources, and this robust annual income report to help fill that gap.

The goal is to empower students, new grads, and practicing doctors to make informed decisions, negotiate with confidence, and build lasting financial stability.

Income Trends and Workload Realities

The average OD income in 2024 landed just north of $160,000, which was pleasantly surprising for both of us. But when adjusted for the average 4.22 days worked per week, that number drops significantly.

Younger doctors increasingly prioritize four-day workweeks, no weekends, and higher pay. That ideal may not always align with current market conditions.

Geography Matters: Rural vs. Urban

If there’s one surefire way to boost income potential, it’s considering rural practice. States like South Dakota, Wisconsin, and New Mexico led the way in highest average OD incomes, while more saturated urban states like California, Texas, and Michigan lagged behind.

Of course, lifestyle factors play a huge role in practice location decisions. Dr. Lopez emphasized that even a few years in a rural area can offer significant financial payoff and flexibility down the road.

Women in Ownership: A Positive Trend

Another encouraging shift is that more women are stepping into ownership. The report shows female ODs outnumbering males among respondents who own their practices. This is a powerful sign of change and a call to action for those wondering if they can do it too.

Retirement Savings: A Growing Concern

Despite increasing salaries, the average optometrist’s net worth and retirement savings remain alarmingly low. The median net worth in 2024 was $350,000. For many ODs practicing 20+ years, that’s simply not enough.

The report also showed that a surprising number of associates don't have access to retirement plans with employer matches. This is another reason why understanding compensation packages holistically (salary and benefits) is critical.

Optometry Student Loan Debt: Is It Worth It?

Roughly 15% of new grads reported over $300,000 in student loan debt. That kind of burden makes early-career financial decisions even more crucial, especially for those considering practice ownership, which often requires significant cash reserves.

Dr. Lopez stressed that repayment strategies must align with life goals. For those seeking ownership, aggressively paying down loans might not be the smartest first move.

Side Hustles and Financial Freedom

While only 25% of ODs report having a side hustle, Dr. Lopez noted that filling in an extra day here or there can outperform many small business ventures in terms of income. Still, finding something you love, whether it’s speaking, consulting, or a creative outlet, can add fulfillment and financial flexibility.

Would You Choose Optometry Again?

Over half of ODs surveyed said they’d choose the profession again, though not with overwhelming enthusiasm. Dr. Lopez and I agreed that much of that hesitation is likely tied to financial uncertainty and lack of preparation. The more we can educate, empower, and equip our community, the more that number will rise.

Final Thoughts on the 2025 Optometrist Income Report

The 2025 ODs on Finance Income Report isn’t just about numbers. It’s a call to action for better financial literacy, stronger negotiation skills, smarter career planning, and a more equitable profession.

If you haven’t already, download the full report here and share it with a colleague.

Want to connect with Dr. Chris Lopez? Reach out to him via LinkedIn or email him at christopher.lopez.2013@gmail.com.

To hear the full episode and more inspiring stories, subscribe to Ryan Reflects on your favorite podcast platform.