Austin vs Minneapolis: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Austin, MN and Minneapolis, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, MN | Minneapolis, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $131,000 | $164,520▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $62.98 | $79.09▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $75,980 | $98,471▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $103,018 | $134,878▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $154,772 | $179,531▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $185,179 | $202,100▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 470▲ |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Austin.
The salary gap between Austin and Minneapolis is $33,520 (25.59%). Minneapolis's median is +17.00% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $109,199,Minneapolis spans $103,629. Austin 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, Minneapolis ($156,952 effective) pays 18.01% more than Austin ($132,995 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Minneapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($164,520/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($202,100)
- ✓Larger job market (470 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $156,952)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Austin grew -1.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 31.6% growth in Minneapolis over the same period.
Austin, MN
$128,566 (2024) → $127,234 (2025)
Minneapolis, MN
$121,460 (2019) → $159,790 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, MN
Minneapolis, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Austin or Minneapolis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and Minneapolis?
Should I relocate from Austin to Minneapolis as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Austin vs Minneapolis?
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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