How to Become a Optometrists in Texas
Optometrists in Texas earn a median salary of $128,360/year, which is 5% below the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a optometrists takes home approximately $6,795/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a optometrists can afford in Texas
Becoming a optometrists in Texas
Meet education requirements
Optometrists positions in Texas typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many optometrists positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for optometristss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 3,180 optometrists. The highest concentrations are in Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos and McAllen-Edinburg-Mission.
Optometrists salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $141K | $67.73/hr | 280 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission | $138K | $66.18/hr | 60 |
| Lubbock | $137K | $66.05/hr | 40 |
| El Paso | $134K | $64.57/hr | 80 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $132K | $63.37/hr | 710 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $132K | $63.32/hr | 30 |
| Corpus Christi | $131K | $63.2/hr | 50 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $125K | $59.99/hr | 930 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $96K | $45.94/hr | 450 |
Optometrists salary range in Texas
Optometrists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a optometrists make in Texas?▼
The median optometrists salary in Texas is $128,360 per year ($61.71/hr). This is 5% below the national median of $134,830. Salaries range from $44,610 to $177,360.
What are the requirements to become a optometrists in Texas?▼
Optometrists positions in Texas typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a optometrists afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $128,360, a optometrists in Texas would take home approximately $8,207/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 17.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for optometrists in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for optometrists in Texas are Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos ($140,880), McAllen-Edinburg-Mission ($137,660), Lubbock ($137,390). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for optometrists?▼
No, Texas does not have a state income tax. This means optometrists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.