Amarillo vs Houston: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Amarillo, TX and Houston, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Amarillo, TX | Houston, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $133,323▲ | $128,329 |
| Hourly Rate | $64.10▲ | $61.69 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $46,373 | $98,862▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $103,217 | $106,790▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $154,842▲ | $151,300 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $234,275▲ | $166,805 |
| Total Employed | 40 | 1,250▲ |
Verdict
Amarillo, TX offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Houston.
The salary gap between Amarillo and Houston is $4,994 (3.89%). Amarillo's median is -5.18% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Amarillo spans $187,902,Houston spans $67,943. Amarillo 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, Amarillo ($145,200 effective) pays 11.60% more than Houston ($130,113 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Amarillo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($133,323/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($234,275)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $145,200)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Houston if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,250 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Amarillo grew 16.4% from 2020 to 2025, compared to 11.1% growth in Houston over the same period.
Amarillo, TX
$111,240 (2020) → $129,490 (2025)
Houston, TX
$112,230 (2019) → $124,640 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Amarillo, TX
Houston, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Amarillo or Houston?
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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