Casper vs Gillette: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Casper, WY and Gillette, WY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Casper, WY | Gillette, WY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $131,114▲ | $127,195 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.03▲ | $61.15 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,046▲ | $73,773 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,206▲ | $103,100 |
| 75th Percentile | $161,942▲ | $153,258 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $198,834▲ | $180,194 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 9 |
Verdict
Casper, WY offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Gillette.
The salary gap between Casper and Gillette is $3,919 (3.08%). Casper's median is -6.75% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Casper spans $122,788,Gillette spans $106,421. Casper 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, Casper ($136,862 effective) pays 3.08% more than Gillette ($132,771 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Casper if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($131,114/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($198,834)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $136,862)
- ✓You prefer the Wyoming area and lifestyle
Choose Gillette if…
- ✓You prefer the Wyoming area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Casper grew 6.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.3% growth in Gillette over the same period.
Casper, WY
$119,752 (2024) → $127,345 (2025)
Gillette, WY
$116,171 (2024) → $123,538 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Casper, WY
Gillette, WY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Casper or Gillette?
What is the hourly rate difference between Casper and Gillette?
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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