Denver vs Loveland: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Denver, CO and Loveland, CO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Denver, CO | Loveland, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $162,811 | $164,045▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $78.27 | $78.87▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,028 | $95,146▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $131,078▲ | $130,834 |
| 75th Percentile | $174,805 | $197,228▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $220,973 | $238,957▲ |
| Total Employed | 470▲ | 17 |
Verdict
Loveland, CO offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Denver.
The salary gap between Denver and Loveland is $1,234 (0.76%). Loveland's median is +16.67% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Denver spans $138,945,Loveland spans $143,811. Loveland 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, Loveland ($156,233 effective) pays 1.51% more than Denver ($153,912 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Denver if…
- ✓Larger job market (470 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Choose Loveland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($164,045/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($238,957)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $156,233)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Denver grew 29.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.2% growth in Loveland over the same period.
Denver, CO
$122,300 (2019) → $158,130 (2025)
Loveland, CO
$142,043 (2024) → $159,329 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Denver, CO
Loveland, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Denver or Loveland?
What is the hourly rate difference between Denver and Loveland?
Should I relocate from Denver to Loveland as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Denver vs Loveland?
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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