Norman vs Tulsa: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Norman, OK and Tulsa, OK. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Norman, OK | Tulsa, OK |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $126,694▲ | $103,217 |
| Hourly Rate | $60.91▲ | $49.63 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,483 | $78,898▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $104,180▲ | $94,836 |
| 75th Percentile | $152,978 | $155,161▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $187,455▲ | $185,987 |
| Total Employed | 22 | 190▲ |
Verdict
Norman, OK offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tulsa.
The salary gap between Norman and Tulsa is $23,477 (22.75%). Norman's median is -9.90% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Norman spans $113,972,Tulsa spans $107,089. Norman 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, Norman ($142,513 effective) pays 23.18% more than Tulsa ($115,696 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Norman if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($126,694/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($187,455)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,513)
- ✓You prefer the Oklahoma area and lifestyle
Choose Tulsa if…
- ✓Larger job market (190 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Oklahoma area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Norman grew 13.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -5.3% growth in Tulsa over the same period.
Norman, OK
$108,122 (2024) → $123,052 (2025)
Tulsa, OK
$105,810 (2019) → $100,250 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Norman, OK
Frequently Asked Questions
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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