Optometry is a highly respected healthcare profession dedicated to preserving vision and addressing eye health concerns.
Whether testing sight, diagnosing conditions like glaucoma or cataracts, or recommending corrective solutions such as glasses or contact lenses, optometrists provide essential services to the UK’s population.
Beyond the personal satisfaction of helping patients, optometry offers a stable career with a clear pathway for professional and financial growth.
This article explores everything you need to know about optometrist salaries in the UK, the steps to enter the profession, and tips to maximise earning potential.
What Is the Average Salary for Optometrists in the UK?
Salaries for optometrists in the UK are influenced by factors such as experience, location, and the type of employer. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- Entry-Level Salaries: Newly qualified optometrists can expect to earn between £25,000 and £37,000 annually, depending on whether they work for the NHS, a private clinic, or a retail chain.
- Experienced Salaries: As optometrists gain more experience, their earnings typically rise to between £37,000 and £50,000 per year.
- Senior Salaries: Senior roles, such as clinical leads or practice managers, can command salaries of £50,000 to £61,000 or more, particularly in private practices or high-demand urban areas.
Comparing NHS vs. Private Practice Salaries
Optometrists employed by the NHS are paid according to structured pay bands, with most starting at Band 6 and progressing to Band 7 or higher.
These bands ensure consistency but may limit earning potential compared to private employers, who often offer bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities.
Work Hours and Flexibility
Optometrists generally work 37 to 40 hours per week, though evening and weekend shifts may be required, particularly in retail settings. Part-time roles and flexible working arrangements are also common, catering to those seeking a better work-life balance.
How to Become an Optometrist in the UK?
Becoming an optometrist requires academic qualifications, practical training, and dedication to professional development. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
University Route
The university pathway is the most common and straightforward method for entering the field:
- Get a General Optical Council (GOC)-accredited optometry degree.
- Complete a one-year pre-registration placement, supervised by a registered optometrist, to gain practical experience.
- Pass the GOC’s final assessment to qualify as an optometrist and register for practice.
Entry Requirements for University:
To enrol in an optometry programme, you typically need:
- 5 GCSEs (grades 9 to 4 or A* to C), including English, maths, and science.
- 3 A-Levels, with at least one in a science subject such as biology, chemistry, or physics.
Work-Based Route
If you’re already working in a related role, such as a dispensing optician, you can retrain to become an optometrist by completing:
- An approved optometry degree.
- The one-year pre-registration placement required for qualification.
Volunteering and Work Experience
Volunteering or securing work experience at a high-street optician or healthcare setting can enhance your understanding of the profession. This exposure is particularly beneficial when applying for university or seeking a pre-registration placement.
Factors That Influence an Optometrist’s Salary
Experience Level
Earnings increase significantly as you gain more experience in the field:
- Entry-Level: £25,000 to £37,000, typically for those just starting their careers.
- Mid-Career: £37,000 to £50,000, achieved after several years of clinical experience.
- Senior Roles: £50,000 to £61,000 or more, especially in leadership or specialist positions.
Employer Type
- NHS: Offers predictable pay progression based on structured pay bands.
- Private Clinics: Provide higher starting salaries and often include performance bonuses or profit-sharing opportunities.
- Retail Chains: Salaries vary widely, but these roles often include incentives for sales performance or hitting targets.
Geographic Location
Salaries tend to be higher in urban areas where demand is greatest, particularly in cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham. However, rural settings may offer lower salaries but better work-life balance and lower living costs.
Salary Progression in Optometry
Optometry offers clear opportunities for career and salary progression. Below is a typical career trajectory:
| Career Stage | Salary Range |
| Entry-Level Optometrist | £25,000 – £37,000 |
| Experienced Optometrist | £37,000 – £50,000 |
| Senior Optometrist/Manager | £50,000 – £61,000+ |
Advanced roles, such as becoming a locum optometrist (freelance), can provide opportunities to earn even more, with hourly rates often exceeding £35.
Additional Benefits of Being an Optometrist
Beyond competitive salaries, optometrists enjoy a variety of perks:
- Pension Plans: Particularly robust for those in pension schemes and NHS roles.
- Flexible Working Hours: Many optometrists have the option of part-time work or flexible schedules.
- Career Development Opportunities: Employers often fund training and CPD courses.
- Bonuses and Incentives: Common in private and retail settings, particularly for achieving sales or performance targets.
- Job Stability: With an ageing population and increasing demand for eye care services, optometry offers long-term job security.
How Do UK Optometrist Salaries Compare Internationally?
While UK optometrist salaries are competitive, they are often lower than those in countries like the USA, Canada, or Australia. Here’s a comparison:
- USA: The average salary for an optometrist is approximately $120,000 (£97,000) per year.
- Canada: Optometrists earn between CAD 80,000 and 120,000 (£47,000 – £70,000) annually.
- Australia: Salaries range from AUD 75,000 to 100,000 (£39,000 – £52,000).
Despite these differences, UK optometrists benefit from the NHS’s structured pay scales and the opportunity to practise without the high student debt burdens commonly seen in other countries.
Highest Paying Cities for Optometrists in the United Kingdom
The salary for optometrists varies by location, with some cities offering significantly higher pay due to demand, cost of living, and competition. Below is a table showcasing the highest-paying cities for optometrists in the UK based on reported data.
| City | Average Salary (Per Year) |
| Norwich | £64,709 |
| Colchester | £62,041 |
| Newcastle upon Tyne | £60,489 |
| Sheffield | £60,088 |
| Bristol | £58,487 |
| Southampton | £57,849 |
| Bournemouth | £57,254 |
| Liverpool | £55,745 |
| London | £55,066 |
Top Employers for Optometrists in the UK
Certain employers are known for offering competitive pay and additional benefits for optometrists. Below is a table highlighting the top employers, their median pay, and the range of salaries they offer.
| Employer | Salary Range (Per Year) | Median Pay (Per Year) |
| Specsavers | £40K – £54K | £46K |
| PPR UK | £49K – £53K | £50K |
| Boots Opticians | £40K – £54K | £43K |
| Vision Express | £40K – £55K | £46K |
| Inspired Selections | £47K – £57K | £52K |
| Prospect Health Recruitment | £45K – £53K | £53K |
| Team Locum | £50K – £58K | £57K |
| Optical Express | £47K – £64K | £60K |
These cities and employers demonstrate where optometrists can find some of the best-paying opportunities in the UK. If you want any changes made, please let me know!
Tips for Maximising Your Earning Potential as an Optometrist
- Pursue Advanced Specialisations: Areas like low vision therapy, paediatric optometry, or contact lens fitting often pay higher salaries.
- Invest in Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Advanced certifications and skills can open doors to more lucrative roles.
- Consider Private Practice: Private employers often offer higher salaries and performance-based bonuses.
- Negotiate Wisely: Research market rates and confidently negotiate your salary during hiring or appraisals.
- Explore Locum Work: Working as a freelance optometrist can be highly lucrative, offering flexibility and higher hourly rates.
Conclusion
Optometry is a rewarding and stable profession in the UK, with competitive salaries and ample opportunities for growth. By specialising, pursuing advanced certifications, or exploring leadership roles, optometrists can maximise their earning potential while making a meaningful impact on patient health.
FAQs
What is the average salary for an optometrist in the UK?
The average salary ranges from £37,000 to £50,000, with higher earnings for senior roles.
What are the typical working hours for an optometrist?
Most optometrists work 37 to 40 hours per week, though evening or weekend shifts may be required.
How can I become an optometrist in the UK?
You’ll need a degree in optometry, a pre-registration placement, and successful completion of the GOC final assessment.
Can dispensing opticians become optometrists?
Yes, by completing an optometry degree and the required pre-registration year.
Do optometrists earn more in private practices?
Yes, private practices often pay more than NHS roles, with bonuses for performance.
How do UK optometrist salaries compare internationally?
While UK salaries are competitive, they are lower than those in countries like the USA and Canada.
Are there financial benefits to specialising in optometry?
Yes, specialisations such as paediatrics or low vision therapy often come with higher salaries.
