Dallas vs Corpus Christi: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Dallas, TX and Corpus Christi, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dallas, TX | Corpus Christi, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $144,957▲ | $142,208 |
| Hourly Rate | $69.69▲ | $68.37 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,490▲ | $67,274 |
| 25th Percentile | $111,887▲ | $108,973 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,313▲ | $149,127 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $171,274▲ | $167,712 |
| Total Employed | 870▲ | 70 |
Verdict
Dallas, TX offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Corpus Christi.
The salary gap between Dallas and Corpus Christi is $2,749 (1.93%). 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 Dallas spans $95,784,Corpus Christi spans $100,438. Corpus Christi has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Corpus Christi ($153,455 effective) pays 9.13% more than Dallas ($140,612 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dallas if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($144,957/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($171,274)
- ✓Larger job market (870 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Corpus Christi if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $153,455)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Dallas grew 26.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 25.2% growth in Corpus Christi over the same period.
Dallas, TX
$110,910 (2019) → $140,790 (2025)
Corpus Christi, TX
$110,310 (2019) → $138,120 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dallas, TX
Corpus Christi, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Dallas or Corpus Christi?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dallas and Corpus Christi?
Should I relocate from Dallas to Corpus Christi as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Dallas vs Corpus Christi?
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