Austin vs Plano: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Austin, TX and Plano, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | Plano, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,322 | $140,311▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $64.58 | $67.46▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $57,977 | $81,381▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $108,561▲ | $107,263 |
| 75th Percentile | $167,104 | $170,651▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $187,809 | $211,021▲ |
| Total Employed | 350▲ | 57 |
Verdict
Plano, TX offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Austin.
The salary gap between Austin and Plano is $5,989 (4.46%). Plano's median is -0.21% 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,Plano spans $129,640. 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, Plano ($146,157 effective) pays 6.71% 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…
- ✓Larger job market (350 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Plano if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($140,311/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($211,021)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $146,157)
- ✓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 -1.5% growth in Plano over the same period.
Austin, TX
$115,990 (2019) → $130,460 (2025)
Plano, TX
$138,392 (2024) → $136,277 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Austin or Plano?
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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