Copperas Cove vs Dallas: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Copperas Cove, TX and Dallas, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Copperas Cove, TX | Dallas, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $129,854 | $144,957▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $62.43 | $69.69▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,522▲ | $75,490 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,534 | $111,887▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $156,733 | $165,313▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $189,000▲ | $171,274 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 870▲ |
Verdict
Dallas, TX offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Copperas Cove.
The salary gap between Copperas Cove and Dallas is $15,103 (11.63%). 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 Copperas Cove spans $110,478,Dallas spans $95,784. Copperas Cove 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 3.95% more than Copperas Cove ($135,265 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Copperas Cove if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($189,000)
- ✓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 Copperas Cove grew -1.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 26.9% growth in Dallas over the same period.
Copperas Cove, TX
$128,079 (2024) → $126,121 (2025)
Dallas, TX
$110,910 (2019) → $140,790 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Copperas Cove, TX
Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Copperas Cove or Dallas?
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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