Ardmore vs Oklahoma City: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Ardmore, OK and Oklahoma City, OK. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ardmore, OK | Oklahoma City, OK |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $118,301▲ | $107,974 |
| Hourly Rate | $56.88▲ | $51.91 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,615 | $76,788▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $95,741▲ | $79,156 |
| 75th Percentile | $142,397 | $157,755▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $171,542 | $174,332▲ |
| Total Employed | 7 | 170▲ |
Verdict
Ardmore and Oklahoma City are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Ardmore and Oklahoma City is $10,327 (9.56%). Ardmore's median is -15.87% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ardmore spans $102,927,Oklahoma City spans $97,544. Ardmore 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, Ardmore ($133,072 effective) pays 11.42% more than Oklahoma City ($119,430 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ardmore if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($118,301/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $133,072)
- ✓You prefer the Oklahoma area and lifestyle
Choose Oklahoma City if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($174,332)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Oklahoma area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Ardmore grew 13.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 61.9% growth in Oklahoma City over the same period.
Ardmore, OK
$100,959 (2024) → $114,900 (2025)
Oklahoma City, OK
$64,770 (2019) → $104,870 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ardmore, OK
Oklahoma City, OK
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Ardmore or Oklahoma City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ardmore and Oklahoma City?
Should I relocate from Ardmore to Oklahoma City as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Ardmore vs Oklahoma City?
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