Am I being paid fairly?
Salary varies significantly by role, region, practice type, and experience. Most optical professionals don't have access to reliable benchmark data - which means many are underpaid without knowing it.
Optometrists in London independents typically earn 10–20% more than the national average. Rural practices often offer relocation packages to compensate. Practice managers in multiples tend to earn more than those in independents, but with less clinical autonomy.
The key variables are: your role type, your years of qualified experience, your scope of practice (IP prescribing, contact lenses, specialist clinics), your location, and whether you're in an independent or a multiple.
A good starting point is to ask yourself: when did I last have a pay review? What did it reference? If the answer is "nothing in particular", that's worth addressing.
Explore further
- Career Health CheckGet a personalised salary benchmark for your role and region
- Speak to the TeamTalk through your current package with us
- What does the market look like in my area?Understand demand and pay in your region
- Federation RepsAsk our AI Salary Rep for a benchmark
- Find a PracticeBrowse practices with active opportunities
Next step
Ready to take the next step?
Our team can help you think through your options - no commitment required.