Grand Island vs La Vista: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Grand Island, NE and La Vista, NE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Island, NE | La Vista, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $125,585▲ | $119,804 |
| Hourly Rate | $60.38▲ | $57.60 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $72,840 | $72,996▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $98,906 | $100,711▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $152,484▲ | $141,502 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $185,426▲ | $167,610 |
| Total Employed | 14▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Grand Island, NE offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to La Vista.
The salary gap between Grand Island and La Vista is $5,781 (4.83%). Grand Island's median is -10.69% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Grand Island spans $112,586,La Vista spans $94,614. Grand Island 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, Grand Island ($137,251 effective) pays 4.83% more than La Vista ($130,933 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Grand Island if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($125,585/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($185,426)
- ✓Larger job market (14 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $137,251)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Choose La Vista if…
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Grand Island grew 6.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in La Vista over the same period.
Grand Island, NE
$114,321 (2024) → $121,975 (2025)
La Vista, NE
$109,058 (2024) → $116,360 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Island, NE
La Vista, NE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Grand Island or La Vista?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Island and La Vista?
Should I relocate from Grand Island to La Vista as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Grand Island vs La Vista?
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