Austin vs Dallas: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Austin, TX and Dallas, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | Dallas, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,322 | $144,957▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $64.58 | $69.69▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $57,977 | $75,490▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $108,561 | $111,887▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $167,104▲ | $165,313 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $187,809▲ | $171,274 |
| Total Employed | 350 | 870▲ |
Verdict
Dallas, TX offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Austin.
The salary gap between Austin and Dallas is $10,635 (7.92%). Dallas's median is +3.09% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $129,832,Dallas spans $95,784. Austin has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Dallas ($140,612 effective) pays 2.66% more than Austin ($136,971 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($187,809)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Dallas if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($144,957/year)
- ✓Larger job market (870 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $140,612)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Austin grew 12.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 26.9% growth in Dallas over the same period.
Austin, TX
$115,990 (2019) → $130,460 (2025)
Dallas, TX
$110,910 (2019) → $140,790 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Austin or Dallas?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and Dallas?
Should I relocate from Austin to Dallas as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Austin vs Dallas?
Related Comparisons
Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov