Stillwater vs Tulsa: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Stillwater, OK and Tulsa, OK. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Stillwater, OK | Tulsa, OK |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $121,601▲ | $103,217 |
| Hourly Rate | $58.46▲ | $49.63 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,529 | $78,898▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $97,940▲ | $94,836 |
| 75th Percentile | $149,631 | $155,161▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $183,473 | $185,987▲ |
| Total Employed | 13 | 190▲ |
Verdict
Stillwater and Tulsa are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Stillwater and Tulsa is $18,384 (17.81%). Stillwater's median is -13.52% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Stillwater spans $112,944,Tulsa spans $107,089. Stillwater 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, Stillwater ($136,784 effective) pays 18.23% 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 Stillwater if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($121,601/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $136,784)
- ✓You prefer the Oklahoma area and lifestyle
Choose Tulsa if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($185,987)
- ✓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 Stillwater grew 13.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -5.3% growth in Tulsa over the same period.
Stillwater, OK
$103,776 (2024) → $118,105 (2025)
Tulsa, OK
$105,810 (2019) → $100,250 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Stillwater, OK
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Stillwater or Tulsa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Stillwater and Tulsa?
Should I relocate from Stillwater to Tulsa as a optometrist?
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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