With a growing aging population driving a rise in patient needs, along with an anticipated decline in the ophthalmology workforce, locum tenens work and travel assignments are becoming increasingly valuable. For ophthalmologists considering their next move, location matters. Here's a data-driven look at the best states to practice in for 2025 and 2026, where demand, compensation and work-life balance align.
Addressing the workforce shortage:
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, demand for ophthalmologists is projected to increase by 24% by 2035, while the workforce supply is expected to decline by 12%. The shortage is far worse in rural areas, where only 29% of workforce needs are met, compared to 77% in urban communities. This shortage places an increased strain on care access. However, it creates significant opportunities for clinicians willing to travel to regions where they’re needed most.
The top five states for ophthalmologists:
Based on current compensation data from Becker's, the following states offer the highest average annual wages for ophthalmologists in 2025:
- Ohio: $367,750
- New Hampshire: $358,490
- New York: $348,610
- California: $340,300
- Alaska: $329,590
These five states offer more than just higher earning potential. Excellent healthcare infrastructure, diverse patient populations and quality-of-life benefits make them great destinations for both short-term and long-term assignments.
Emerging hotspots: Where demand, opportunity and pay meet:
Beyond compensation, ophthalmologists should also consider where patient needs are greatest. Regions with aging populations and underserved rural communities are becoming “hot spots” where locum tenens physicians can make meaningful impacts:
- Ohio leads the nation in average ophthalmologist pay, but its mix of urban hubs and underserved rural regions means clinicians can earn top compensation while addressing significant access challenges.
- New York and California combine high salaries with some of the country's largest and most diverse patient populations, creating opportunities in both metropolitan centers and rural communities.
- Maine and New Hampshire stand out for their high compensation and aging populations, driving demand for access to specialized care.
Not only do these states offer opportunities, but each offers a mix of accessible metropolitan areas, reliable healthcare infrastructure and appealing lifestyle benefits. From vibrant cultural hubs to scenic environments, these states offer ophthalmologists the chance to maximize their professional fulfillment and financial rewards.
The bottom line:
The outlook for ophthalmology in 2025 and beyond is clear: demand is rising, supply is tightening and opportunities for clinicians willing to travel are expanding. High-paying states represent not just financial upside but also regions where patient needs are high, especially in rural and aging communities.
For ophthalmologists, locums offers the flexibility to explore new markets, the chance to provide critical care where it’s needed most and the ability to maximize professional and financial rewards.
Whether you’re seeking new experiences, lifestyle flexibility or competitive pay, combining compensation with patient needs allows clinicians to optimize both their impacts and their earnings.
