Burlington vs Cedar Rapids: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Burlington, IA and Cedar Rapids, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Burlington, IA | Cedar Rapids, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $122,053▲ | $105,905 |
| Hourly Rate | $58.68▲ | $50.91 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,791 | $81,380▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $99,713▲ | $99,593 |
| 75th Percentile | $144,033▲ | $133,776 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $170,554 | $171,500▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 50▲ |
Verdict
Burlington and Cedar Rapids are closely matched on overall optometrist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Burlington and Cedar Rapids is $16,148 (15.25%). Burlington's median is -13.20% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Burlington spans $99,763,Cedar Rapids spans $90,120. Burlington 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, Burlington ($135,014 effective) pays 13.42% more than Cedar Rapids ($119,044 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Burlington if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($122,053/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $135,014)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($171,500)
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Burlington grew 6.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -29.2% growth in Cedar Rapids over the same period.
Burlington, IA
$111,106 (2024) → $118,544 (2025)
Cedar Rapids, IA
$145,380 (2019) → $102,860 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Burlington, IA
Cedar Rapids, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Burlington or Cedar Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Burlington and Cedar Rapids?
Should I relocate from Burlington to Cedar Rapids as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Burlington vs Cedar Rapids?
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