Colorado Springs vs Golden: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Colorado Springs, CO and Golden, CO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Colorado Springs, CO | Golden, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $135,887 | $135,893▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $65.33 | $65.33 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,595 | $80,596▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $105,328 | $112,312▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $163,809▲ | $161,630 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $201,163▲ | $191,447 |
| Total Employed | 100▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Colorado Springs, CO offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 2 out of 4 metrics compared to Golden.
The salary gap between Colorado Springs and Golden is $6 (0.00%). Golden's median is -3.36% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Colorado Springs spans $134,568,Golden spans $110,851. Colorado Springs 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, Colorado Springs ($134,933 effective) pays 4.26% more than Golden ($129,422 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Colorado Springs if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($201,163)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $134,933)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Choose Golden if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($135,893/year)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Colorado Springs grew 26.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -2.4% growth in Golden over the same period.
Colorado Springs, CO
$104,260 (2019) → $131,980 (2025)
Golden, CO
$135,300 (2024) → $131,986 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Colorado Springs, CO
Golden, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Colorado Springs or Golden?
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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