Average Ophthalmologist Salary in Pennsylvania

As of September 28, 2025, an Ophthalmologist in Pennsylvania earns approximately $505,000 per year ($42,083 monthly). Based on an average 39-hour work week, this translates to about $243 per hour. Looking for a broader view? See the Ophthalmologist salary overview or compare nearby states like Arizona, Nevada, and Oregon.

How Much Do Ophthalmologists Make in Pennsylvania?

From 5 verified physician salary submissions in Pennsylvania, SalaryDr is seeing total compensation ranging from $460,000 to $508,000, with top performers (90th percentile) earning up to $675,000 annually. Compared to the national median of $505,000, Ophthalmologist salaries in Pennsylvania are in line with the national median.

Bonuses, Hours Worked, and Job Satisfaction

In Pennsylvania, the salary progression for ophthalmologist physicians shows significant growth potential. Entry-level positions start at $402,500, while those with more than 10 years of experience earn a typical salary of $547,667 - a 36% increase.

Local Practice Settings and Employers

On average, base salary accounts for 76% of total compensation—about $372,000—with the remaining amount coming from bonuses, profit sharing, and incentives.

Work-Life Balance in Pennsylvania

Local ophthalmologist physicians report 3.8/5 career satisfaction, with 100% of those surveyed saying they would choose this specialty again.

Salary Distribution

Distribution based on 5 verified physician salary submissions.

Median Salary: $505,000

Physician Satisfaction in Ophthalmology

Satisfaction Rating

3.8/5

Average satisfaction rating reported by Ophthalmology physicians (1-5 scale).

Would Choose Again

100%

Percentage of Ophthalmology physicians who would choose this specialty again.

Career Satisfaction

Physicians cite the variety of cases and patient relationships as most rewarding aspects of this specialty.

Primary Challenges

On-call demands, administrative burden, and work-life balance are cited as the top challenges.

Salary Comparison

Location Statistics

Average Salary

$489,600

Median Salary

$505,000

Salary Range

$460,000 - $508,000

National Comparison

National Average

$489,600

Difference

+0% vs National Average

Sample Size

5 local / 5 national reports

Salary by Practice Type

Hospital-employed
Average Salary
$508,000
Sample Size
1 submissions
Private Practice
Average Salary
$485,000
Sample Size
4 submissions

* Practice types with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.

Salary by Experience Level

3-5 years
Average Salary
$300,000
Sample Size
1 submissions
11-15 years
Average Salary
$506,500
Sample Size
2 submissions
16+ years
Average Salary
$567,500
Sample Size
2 submissions

* Experience levels with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.

Take-Home Pay Calculator

Total Salary
$505,000
Federal Income Tax
-$147,124
State Income Tax
-$15,504
FICA Tax
-$20,521
Take-Home Pay
$321,852
Monthly
$26,821
Taxes (36.3%)
Take-Home (63.7%)
Based on single filing status in Pennsylvania. Results may vary.

Subspecialty Comparison

Oculoplastic

Average Salary
$1,376,875
Sample Size
8 submissions
Focuses on specialized oculoplastic procedures and treatments within ophthalmology, providing expert care in this specific area.

Glaucoma

Average Salary
$707,214
Sample Size
14 submissions
Focuses on specialized glaucoma procedures and treatments within ophthalmology, providing expert care in this specific area.

Retina

Average Salary
$661,857
Sample Size
14 submissions
Focuses on specialized retina procedures and treatments within ophthalmology, providing expert care in this specific area.

Pediatric

Average Salary
$630,636
Sample Size
11 submissions
Provides specialized surgical care for infants, children, and adolescents, addressing congenital conditions and childhood diseases.

Cornea

Average Salary
$622,417
Sample Size
12 submissions
Focuses on specialized cornea procedures and treatments within ophthalmology, providing expert care in this specific area.

* Subspecialties with fewer than 3 submissions may be omitted for privacy.

* Data is aggregated from verified physician submissions.

Ophthalmology Market Insights: Pennsylvania

Local market conditions, cost of living, and opportunities for Ophthalmology physicians in Pennsylvania.

Cost of Living Analysis

Overall Cost Index:96% of national average
Housing Costs:88% of national average
Healthcare Costs:106% of national average
State Income Tax:Yes
Tax Burden:Medium
Salary Adjusted for Cost of Living:
$526,042
Higher cost of living reduces purchasing power by -4%

Major Healthcare Employers

1
Penn Medicine
Major healthcare employer in Pennsylvania
2
UPMC
Major healthcare employer in Pennsylvania
3
Jefferson Health
Major healthcare employer in Pennsylvania
4
Geisinger Health
Major healthcare employer in Pennsylvania
Career Tip: These health systems often offer competitive Ophthalmology positions with comprehensive benefits packages.

Market Opportunities

Academic Medicine

Teaching hospitals and medical schools offer Ophthalmology positions with research opportunities.

Private Practice

Established and startup practices seeking Ophthalmology physicians with partnership potential.

Locum Tenens

High-demand temporary positions offering flexibility and competitive hourly rates.

Key Market Factors for Ophthalmology in Pennsylvania

Advantages:

  • • Below-average cost of living
  • • Multiple major healthcare employers
  • • Growing demand for Ophthalmology services
  • • Established medical community

Considerations:

  • • Malpractice insurance requirements
  • • State licensing and credentialing process
  • • Competition from established practices

Considering a move to Pennsylvania?

Compare Ophthalmology salaries across different locations and practice settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about physician salaries in Ophthalmology in Pennsylvania.

Data Source: All salary information is based on verified submissions from practicing physicians and is updated regularly to reflect current market conditions.

How to Transition to Ophthalmology in Pennsylvania

Complete guide for physicians looking to transition careers or relocate to Ophthalmology in Pennsylvania.

6 Steps6 Months
1

Assess Your Current Position

Evaluate your current specialty, compensation, job satisfaction, and career goals. Identify specific reasons for wanting to transition and what you hope to achieve.

2

Research Target Opportunities

Investigate Ophthalmology opportunities in Pennsylvania, including salary ranges, practice settings, required qualifications, and market demand.

Learn more →
3

Identify Skill Gaps

Compare your current qualifications with requirements for your target role. Identify any additional training, certifications, or experience needed for a successful transition.

4

Network with Professionals

Connect with Ophthalmology physicians in Pennsylvania through medical associations, conferences, and professional networks. Conduct informational interviews to gain insights.

5

Develop Transition Plan

Create a timeline for your transition including any required training, licensing requirements, financial planning for potential income changes, and family considerations.

6

Execute Your Transition

Begin applying for positions, complete any required training, and manage the logistics of your career change including contract negotiations and relocation if necessary.

Professional Tip: This guide provides general recommendations. Always consult with career advisors, mentors, and legal professionals for personalized advice specific to your situation.

Ophthalmology Career Opportunities in Pennsylvania

Explore current job openings and career paths for Ophthalmology physicians

3 Job Types Available$460,000 - $508,000Pennsylvania

Ophthalmology - Hospital Employed

PennsylvaniaHospital Employment
$437,000 - $482,600/year

Join our healthcare team as a Ophthalmology physician. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth in a collaborative environment.

Benefits & Perks

  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • Retirement plan with matching
  • CME allowance and paid time off
  • Malpractice insurance coverage
  • Sign-on bonus available

Requirements

  • Board certification in Ophthalmology
  • Valid medical license
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Commitment to quality patient care
Posted: RecentlyApplications: OpenType: Full-time

Ophthalmology - Private Practice Opportunity

PennsylvaniaPrivate Practice
$506,000 - $609,600/year

Exciting private practice opportunity for an experienced Ophthalmology physician. Partnership track available with established patient base and modern facilities.

Benefits & Perks

  • Partnership opportunity
  • Productivity bonuses
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Modern equipment and facilities
  • Marketing support

Requirements

  • Board certification in Ophthalmology
  • 2+ years of experience preferred
  • Strong clinical skills
  • Business acumen desired
Posted: RecentlyApplications: OpenType: Full-time

Ophthalmology - Locum Tenens

PennsylvaniaLocum Tenens
$276 - $367/hour

Flexible locum tenens opportunities for Ophthalmology physicians. Choose your schedule and location while earning competitive hourly rates.

Benefits & Perks

  • Flexible scheduling
  • Travel and housing provided
  • Malpractice coverage
  • Competitive hourly rates
  • No administrative duties

Requirements

  • Board certification in Ophthalmology
  • Active medical license
  • Willingness to travel
  • Adaptability to different settings
Posted: RecentlyApplications: OpenType: Full-time

Ready to Advance Your Ophthalmology Career?

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Note: Job postings are representative examples based on current market conditions. Actual positions may vary in requirements, compensation, and benefits. Always verify details with employers directly.

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About Our Data

Our salary data is based on anonymous submissions from practicing physicians across the United States. We verify and clean the data to ensure accuracy and remove outliers.

Last updated: September 28, 2025