Brooklyn Park vs Duluth: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Brooklyn Park, MN and Duluth, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Brooklyn Park, MN | Duluth, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,310 | $139,680▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $66.02 | $67.15▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,640 | $81,014▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $113,689 | $115,491▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $163,820 | $166,486▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $207,328▲ | $201,767 |
| Total Employed | 17▲ | 15 |
Verdict
Brooklyn Park and Duluth are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Brooklyn Park and Duluth is $2,370 (1.73%). Duluth's median is -0.66% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Brooklyn Park spans $127,688,Duluth spans $120,753. Brooklyn Park 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, Duluth ($141,807 effective) pays 1.73% more than Brooklyn Park ($139,401 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Brooklyn Park if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($207,328)
- ✓Larger job market (17 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Duluth if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($139,680/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $141,807)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Brooklyn Park grew -1.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.0% growth in Duluth over the same period.
Brooklyn Park, MN
$134,759 (2024) → $133,362 (2025)
Duluth, MN
$116,930 (2023) → $135,664 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Brooklyn Park, MN
Duluth, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Brooklyn Park or Duluth?
What is the hourly rate difference between Brooklyn Park and Duluth?
Should I relocate from Brooklyn Park to Duluth as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Brooklyn Park vs Duluth?
Related Comparisons
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