Opticians, Dispensing Salary 2025: $47,260 Median Pay & Career Outlook
The median salary for dispensing opticians in the U.S. is $47,260 per year, or roughly $23 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The middle half of opticians earn between $35,610 and $76,750, with the top 10% making over $76,750. With 73,530 people employed in the occupation, it's a modest-sized field with steady demand.
How much Opticians, Dispensing earn
The national median salary for dispensing opticians is $47,260, with a mean annual wage of $51,770. Entry-level positions start around $35,610 at the 10th percentile, while experienced opticians at the 90th percentile can earn $76,750 or more. Pay varies significantly by location, employer type, and experience.
Pay by state
Connecticut and Hawaii top the list with average salaries of $75,300, followed by New Jersey ($72,460), Massachusetts ($67,210), and New York ($63,880). At the lower end, Alabama pays an average of $36,880, Mississippi $36,680, and Louisiana $36,360. Geographic differences can swing pay by more than $30,000 annually.
How to become Opticians, Dispensing
Most dispensing opticians enter the field with a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or a one- to two-year associate degree program in opticianry. Many states require licensure, which typically involves passing the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) and National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE) exams, plus completing a state-specific apprenticeship or education hours. Some opticians start as assistants and work up through experience and certification.
- Complete high school or GED
- Enroll in an opticianry associate degree or apprenticeship
- Pass ABO and NCLE certification exams
- Obtain state license (if required; check your state board)
- Gain experience and consider advanced certifications for higher pay
Job outlook
Employment of dispensing opticians is projected to grow 2.9% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 6,800 job openings each year, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field. Demand is tied to an aging population needing vision correction and the proliferation of eyewear as a fashion accessory.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for dispensing opticians?
Connecticut and Hawaii both have the highest average salary at $75,300, according to BLS data.
Do dispensing opticians need a license?
It depends on the state. Many states require licensure, which usually involves passing the ABO and NCLE exams and completing an approved education or apprenticeship program.
What is the job growth for dispensing opticians?
The occupation is projected to grow 2.9% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average, with about 6,800 openings per year.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Opticians, Dispensing data.